Dear Bearcat Families,
The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors remain a top priority for the Dexter R-XI School District. As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance security, the Dexter Board of Education recently approved the purchase and installation of weapon screening systems in our high school and at events. This technology will serve as an additional layer of protection to help ensure a safe and secure learning environment.
The district will install the CEIA OPENGATE Weapons Detection System while school is not in session. Training will be provided to our school safety staff and administration at that time. We are happy to announce that we will begin using this safety measure when students return from the holiday break on January 6th. We will have a soft implementation period to help students adjust to the new process.
In preparation, a link to a short video clip is provided below. This video will help students and parents understand what can be expected. The OPENGATE is a fully open walk-through detection system, composed of two freestanding pillars. Acoustic and optical signals provide real-time status and alarm indications. Students will be able to pass through the gate with bags, backpacks, and purses.
If an item triggers an alert, a trained member of the safety team will guide students to a separate area for a secondary screening. This may include a check of the backpack, purse, sports bag, or other items brought through the screening units. The student may also be asked to double-check their pockets to ensure something didn’t inadvertently activate the system. After the secondary screening, the student will be asked to pass through the OPENGATE system again.
Please view the video and Frequently Asked Questions, provided in the links below. We are committed to ensuring this process is as smooth as possible for everyone involved. We appreciate your support as we work together to create a safer school environment for all.
Your Partner in Education,
Amy James, Superintendent
Video: https://share.ceia-usa.com/index.php/s/wb2w9Qn6w7ZAxJ5
Frequently Asked Questions: CEIA OPENGATE - FAQs