June 3, 2026 – This week, the Duval County School Board approved a $2 million contract with Communication Technologies, Inc. to begin installing weapons detection systems in elementary schools starting in the 2026-27 school year. Under the plan, approximately 30 elementary schools will be equipped each year with CEIA OPENGATE weapons detection systems. These are the same systems that were successfully installed at all middle schools during the 2025-26 school year.
"The students and staff at our elementary schools deserve the same level of safety found at our secondary schools,” said Duval County School Police Chief Jackson Short. “By adding weapons detection technology to our elementary schools, we remain true to one of our core values –– keeping students and staff safe.”
These portable, walk-through systems are designed to detect a wide range of threats, including knives, firearms, and explosives. They are also designed to handle high volumes of students while allowing them to keep their personal items with them, making for a faster, more seamless process.
Up to three OPENGATE systems will be placed in areas where students and visitors enter the school. As the systems are installed and operational, Chief Short advises families to be patient.
“With any new procedure, there will be an adjustment period,” said Chief Short. “We ask our students and families to be patient with this safety upgrade to help ensure a successful implementation."
A list of the initial schools set to receive OPENGATE systems will be provided later this summer. Families can expect to receive advance communication from school administrators prior to installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon will weapons detection systems be in place at elementary schools?
The district will begin installing systems at elementary schools beginning in the 2026-27 school year. The plan is to install approximately 30 systems a year until the project is complete.
What type of weapons detection systems are being used?
The CEIA OPENGATE systems are designed to efficiently screen large numbers of people, including backpacks, while maintaining a steady flow of entry. The systems are portable and can be used indoors or outdoors.
Are these systems similar to the weapons detection systems used in middle and high schools?
The CEIA OPENGATE systems are the same ones that were installed at all of our middle schools during the 2025-26 school year. They use similar technology to the Evolv systems currently used in high schools. The main difference is the manufacturer, which is CEIA OPENGATE.
How are these systems different from traditional metal detectors?
Like Evolv, CEIA OPENGATE systems are more advanced than traditional metal detectors. They are designed to more accurately identify potentially harmful metal objects rather than sounding an alarm for all metal items, such as coins or keys.
Who will operate the weapons detection systems?
School police officers, security personnel, and trained school-based staff will manage the entry process. All staff involved will receive specific training on how to operate the equipment.
What will the student entry process look like?
Students will walk through the detection system one at a time. If the system alerts, the student will be directed to step aside for a brief secondary screening so the main line can continue moving.
What happens if an alert occurs?
If an alert occurs, staff will work with the student in a nearby area to determine the source of the alert. Many everyday school items—such as laptops, metal eyeglass cases, umbrellas, or metal lunchboxes—may trigger an alert. This is known as a secondary screening. This process will include identifying whether the item is permissible, determining whether it is on the student or in a backpack, and, if necessary, using a handheld device or conducting a backpack or bag search.
What types of items can the technology detect?
The systems can detect a range of prohibited items, including but not limited to knives, firearms, handguns, long guns, and materials or components used to construct an explosive device.
What happens if a weapon or illegal substance is found?
If a weapon or illegal substance is identified, law enforcement will immediately take possession of the item. The individual involved may face law enforcement action and school disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
How will safety screening impact morning entry?
The systems are designed to provide fast, efficient screening and maintain a natural flow of entry. However, minor delays may occur during the initial implementation period as students and staff become familiar with the process.
What if a student refuses to go through the weapons detection system?
If a student refuses to comply with the screening process, a parent or guardian will be contacted, and the student will be sent home.
Does everyone entering an elementary school need to go through the system?
Yes. All students and visitors entering an elementary school will be required to pass through the weapons detection system.