Keeping schools safe and secure has become a top priority for school administrations everywhere, and Moore County schools are no different. Kaleigh Hatfield brought up the subject of weapon detection systems at the March School Board meeting, asking Director Chad Moorehead if he was familiar with the Open Gate systems. Moorehead said he had been looking at options, but was not familiar with that system.

The Open Gate system consists of two upright pillars that students walk through, with no need to remove backpacks, bags, or purses. This eliminates the need for separate bag screening. The pillars weigh 25 pounds, making them easily portable. They can run on batteries or electricity, so can be used for outdoor events as well.

The Open Gate system is widely in use at other schools, universities, NFL venues, and even at Monticello. Compared to other systems, the Open Gate systems are much more economical, another important consideration. Director Moorehead said he would follow up on the matter. Both agreed it is a priority. Currently both schools have security cameras but no weapon detection systems.

Both Districts 1 and 3 have open seats in the upcoming August County General Election, as no candidates qualified to run. In this instance, the Metro Council will have to appoint persons to those positions. Current Board members Ed Cashion, District 1, and Jammie Cashion, District 3, will continue to serve on the board until their replacements are named and certified.

The Board voted to add a fourth goal to their state mandated Strategic Plan. The three stated goals include 1) Student success and achievement, 2) Excellence in teaching and staff, and 3) Safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments. The 4th goal added is 4) Community engagement and communications. The Board then voted to update the plan to the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan.

There were no changes for the February and March policy reviews.