Students walking through an Evolv Concealed Weapon Detection System (Photo by Evolv)¶
Antioch High School may not be the only school in Nashville with a concealed weapons detection system much longer.¶
The Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) Board of Education is planning to vote on a proposal Tuesday night that would expand the pilot program approved last week for Antioch High to all district high schools. According to a news release, the proposal would amend the district’s existing contract with its security vendor to lease and install Evolv systems that integrate into the district’s security system.¶
"There is no single solution to ending gun violence, a national epidemic that affects all parts of society, with access to weapons often going unchecked. However, we remain committed to doing what we can to protect our students and staff in our schools," said Metro Schools Superintendent Dr. Adrienne Battle. "Expanding concealed weapons detection systems to all high schools is an important step forward. This will take time to implement thoughtfully, and we will work closely with staff, students, and families to ensure a smooth transition."¶
The district implemented Evolv through a pilot program at Antioch High School following last month’s school shooting that claimed the lives of one student and the gunman, 17-year-old Antioch High student Solomon Henderson. MNPS says the pilot program has proven to be an “effective layer of security, helping detect weapons while maintaining a welcoming and efficient entry process for students.”¶
A representative for Evolv told board members last week that the technology is currently in place at 1,200 school buildings across the country including 7 other school districts in Tennessee. Evolv uses smart technology that provide data and analysis as students are walking through a dual lane system that’s designed to enable a natural pace of entry.¶
When Evolve detects something suspicious it marks it with a red box on an image of the student to help security conduct a less invasive physical search.¶
The annual cost for the concealed weapons detection systems across all district high schools is estimated to be $1.25 million per year.¶
“I regret that we live in a time when schools must invest in weapons detection systems to keep students safe. The reality is that meaningful gun safety measures by state and national leaders have remained out of reach, and we cannot wait for change that may never come,” said Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell. “While I firmly believe in the need for stronger policies to prevent gun violence, our immediate responsibility is to protect students and staff. This investment is a necessary step to address the threats we face today while continuing to push for broader solutions that prioritize safety in every community.”¶
MNPS does not have current plans to implement Evolv in middle or elementary schools but the district does plan to gathers feedback to consider future investments at other school levels.¶
“As a school board, we are committed to providing the tools and resources needed to protect our students against another tragic situation like we experienced at Antioch High. The proposed expansion of concealed weapons detection is one part of a broader effort that includes trained security personnel, controlled building access, and emergency preparedness. We will continue to evaluate additional measures to enhance safety across all schools,” said Board Chair Freda Player.¶
