Open Gate FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How soon will the weapon scanners be in place?
We will begin on December 3, 2024, at Bentworth High School.  Other locations will be considered / phased in as we refine our process.  This marks the first-year scanners will be used during student and visitor entry into the school building and events.

Are the scanners the same as metal detectors?
The scanners are more sensitive than traditional metal detectors. The scanner technology can more accurately identify metal sources that may be potentially harmful rather than sounding an alarm for all types of metal, such as coins.

What types of metal detectors are being used?
The scanners, developed by a company called OpenGate, are designed to screen large numbers of people, including their backpacks, quickly and efficiently. The free-standing scanners are portable and suitable for indoor and outdoor use, making them a good choice for rural school buildings and grounds.

Who will pass through the detectors and what is the process?
All students will pass through free-standing body scanners one at a time.

Visitors to school campuses may pass through scanners as well.

Metal Detector Search Process

As students enter the school building, they shall be required to place all technology on a table for visual screening. Students may be asked to empty their pockets and place items contained therein on a tray or in a basket. The student shall be scanned with a hand-held metal detector or by walk-through free standing detectors.

Should the metal detector alarm sound:

1. The student will be directed to move to one of the adjacent tables.
2. Bentworth School District police, a uniformed security officer, or trained staff member will then search the student’s book bag, backpack, gym bag, or other parcel that the student has in his/her possession.
3. The student will be directed to remove any metal objects from his/her possession and for a second time be scanned. Students are responsible for producing any electronic device during metal detector screening and bag checks. The Bentworth School District will not be responsible for any items damaged in the metal detector screening or bag checking process.

Should the metal detector alarm sound for a second time:

1. The student will be directed to move to an area as directed by the Bentworth School District police, uniformed security officer or trained staff member.
2. The student will be scanned with a hand-held metal detector.
3. The student will be directed to remove any objects detected by the hand-held metal detector.
4. Following the removal of any items detected by the hand-held metal detector, the student will be scanned with the hand-held metal detector for a third time.

Should the alarm sound for a third time:

1. The student will be directed to move to an area as directed by the Bentworth School District police/administrator/designee.
2. The officer/administrator/designee for a third time will request the student to check for any metal objects and to remove such objects.
3. If no objects are produced, the student will be escorted to the office area.
4. Should the student refuse to remove the object, the student will be detained by the officer/administrator. The student’s parents/guardians will be notified and requested to report to the school.

In all cases, the search process will cease when the student passes through the metal detector without activating the alarm.

Who is operating the metal detectors/scanners?
A team of trained administrators, school safety police officer and members of the security team will manage and monitor the entry process.  

What if a weapon or illegal substance is found?
If a weapon or illegal substance is found, police will take possession of it immediately. The person bringing the item(s) onto school property will face potential law enforcement involvement and/or disciplinary actions aligned with the Bentworth School District Code of Student Conduct.

What resources are available to students or employees who are anxious about the metal detectors?
Families are encouraged to talk with students about the addition of scanners before the implementation.  There are many videos regarding the Open Gate detection system on social media. 

School counselors and social workers are prepared to support and assist as needed.

What if I don't want my children to participate?
To be effective, it is essential that the entire school community follow all safety protocols, including arrival procedures. If your child cannot pass through the metal detector for medical reasons, please contact the school nurse or the principal. Otherwise, the expectation is that all students will follow staff directions regarding this important safety matter.

What if a student refuses to pass through the detector/scanner?
If the students refuse this procedure, their parents will be called, and the students will be sent home. 

Adult visitors to the school who refuse to go through the scanner will be denied entry.