By Glenn Rolfe

GEORGETOWN — Spectators attending specified athletic events at Indian River and Sussex Central high schools will have to pass a screen test, the Indian River School District announced Monday.

The IRSD is implementing a new weapons detection system for certain high school sports events, including football and basketball games, for the 2024-25 school year.

The OpenGate detection system will help IRSD staff identify prohibited items such as firearms, knives and other weapons and remove them from the event setting.

Utilized by other districts, the system uses low-frequency electromagnetic technology that does not impact medical or electronic devices. It is also safe for children and pregnant women.

“It is imperative that we ensure the safety of students, staff and community members at athletic events at our high schools,” IRSD Superintendent Dr. Jay Owens said. “This new screening process will allow us to identify and remove potentially dangerous weapons from the facility with minimal inconvenience to those in attendance. It is our mission to create a safe, respectful and enjoyable experience for all visitors to our campuses.”

Specific screening procedures may vary depending on the school location.

Anyone who expresses discomfort walking through the detection devices will be offered the option to pass through an alternative screening method.

Weapons are prohibited on all IRSD properties and the district requests that spectators allow extra time to pass through the screening process when arriving for athletic events.

In implementing these new safety measures, the Indian River School District appreciates the community’s patience and understanding.