Greensboro, N.C. – Two GCS high schools will test a pilot program using touchless scanners at one central location. Screeners will be installed at the entrance to High Point Central High and Smith High and will begin functioning next week. If the pilot is successful, the district plans to install the system at every GCS traditional high school, and the program will be funded by federal ESSER dollars.

The Evolv Express screeners are hands-free systems that use sensors and artificial intelligence to detect potential threats. The system is more sophisticated than a traditional metal detector and less invasive. It does not collect or store any personally identifiable information.

Students, staff and guests will simply walk through the scanners as they enter the building. Staff members stationed at the entrances will monitor the images collected during the screening process, and any potential threats will be flagged by the system for further review.

“This system adds another layer of defense to our ongoing efforts to make our schools more secure,” says Mike Richey, executive director of safety and emergency management. “It’s important to note, however, that the best way to keep schools safe is a strong, positive relationship with students and an environment that encourages them to share any concerns with a trusted adult on campus.”

School and community members are invited to see the system in action at open houses next week, at Smith High on June 22 and at High Point Central High on June 23. Both will take place from 4 to 6 p.m.

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina and the 50th largest of more than 14,000 in the United States, serves nearly 70,000 PK-12 students at 126 schools. With approximately 9,800 employees, GCS works in partnership with parents, businesses, colleges and the community to deliver an education that connects student interests and skills with the careers and economy of our future here and around the world. We provide educational choices to meet individual student needs in a culturally diverse citizenship and new opportunities to help our students Soar to Greatness. For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com.