A message from Superintendent Ehren Jarrett to all students, families, teachers, staff & community members
I’m the parent of an RPS 205 student. No matter what age or grade level, our children are still that – children. It is our job to protect them as parents.
As superintendent it is my job to support our teachers and our staff in protecting our students at school to the best of our ability. That’s why the RPS 205 school board approved the installation of Evolv Express® weapons detection system at the main entrances to all four RPS 205 high schools – Auburn, East, Guilford and Jefferson, as well as the Roosevelt Community Education Center. The scanners will be installed and in use at the start of the 2023-2024 school year in August.
The floor-standing scanners will allow students and visitors to easily walk between them without emptying backpacks or slowing down. Although not metal detectors, the scanners are able to detect questionable items in pockets, coats and bags. The goal is to identify and remove all kinds of weapons and other harmful materials before those items enter our school buildings. In addition, more secure entrances and exits will allow students to experience privileges like safely entering and exiting the buildings for internship opportunities and other appointments.
A team of security industry experts also completed a recent safety assessment of our school buildings, identifying areas where we can improve. Installing security scanners is just one step we are taking to make our buildings as safe as we can for our students, teachers and staff who should feel secure in their learning environments.
Over the summer, updates on the new scanners will be available on the district’s website, social media and from high school principals.
As a school district, we did our homework and are working hard to achieve a high grade in ensuring our schools are safe for students, families, teachers, and staff.
MORE INFORMATION ON EVOLV EXPRESS
Thank you for your partnership in our students’ safety and success.
Dr. Ehren Jarrett
Superintendent, Rockford Public Schools