IR School District joins Seaford with weapon detection system

DAGSBORO — Opting to be proactive, the Indian River School District is adding a layer of security for the upcoming year: a weapon detection system similar to one being used at Seaford schools.

Indian River has purchased two OpenGate Weapons Detection Systems to provide mobile technology for enhanced security screening at public events.

“We’re hoping to order more. But we want to get two and get them in place and get the feel of them,” said Preston “Pep” Lewis, the district’s administrator of student services. “We can move them from building to building or site to site as needed.”

Plans are to utilize the systems at fall events, like football games at Indian River and Sussex Central high schools.

“And then, use them into the winter sports season, as well,” Mr. Lewis said.

So far, there has been no discussion about using the screeners on a daily basis for individuals entering schools, Mr. Lewis added.

Meanwhile, the Seaford School District plans to use its OpenGate machinery at Seaford High next year.

Based on positive community and parent feedback, officials announced the plan to purchase four additional OpenGate systems in June, augmenting those already utilized the last few weeks of the 2023-24 year, including at the high school’s graduation.

This fall, four detection systems will be used daily at Seaford High, and two will be available as needed for other schools, superintendent Dr. Sharon DiGirolamo announced June 18.

The need for screening surfaced in Seaford on May 2, when, during a disciplinary procedure, a search of a high school student’s backpack revealed a firearm and a knife. The pupil, Fernando Etienne, 18, of Seaford, was in turn arrested by city police and charged with multiple weapon and firearm offenses.

The hope at Indian River is that the security equipment arrives in time for training provided by OpenGate prior to the fall sport season, board member Derek Cathell said during a meeting Monday.

“I think they are going to be a great resource and another addition to our safety measures that we already have in place,” he added.

Mr. Lewis said each detection system costs around $24,000.

“Unfortunately, over the years, things have happened,” he continued. “We were able to talk to our board about it, and our board agreed to purchase those. We are anxious to get them in. ... We’re hoping that they are going to be in at the end of August.”