8136 Metal Detectors

Philosophy

The Board of Education (the “Board”) of the Brentwood Union Free School District (the “District”) is committed to providing a safe and orderly educational environment. The Board recognizes that the possession of weapons and other contraband on school property or at school events poses a grave risk to the health, safety, and welfare of students, staff, and visitors. In certain circumstances, the use of metal detection devices may be an appropriate component of the District’s comprehensive school safety plan.

Authorization

The Board authorizes the use of both walk-through and hand-held metal detectors as part of the District’s safety measures. Use will be consistent with constitutional protections, applicable federal and state laws, and guidance issued by the New York State Education Department.

Scope of Use

Metal detectors may be deployed:

• At the entrances to school buildings, athletic facilities, and other district events, when deemed necessary by the Superintendent or designee.
• In connection with specific, targeted searches when there is reasonable suspicion that a student or visitor may be in possession of a weapon or contraband.

Notice and Signage

The District shall provide clear notice to students, staff, and visitors that entry onto school property is conditional upon passing through or submitting to screening by metal detectors when such procedures are in place. Permanent or temporary signage will be displayed prominently.

Procedures

• All screenings shall be conducted in a minimally intrusive, respectful manner that preserves the dignity and privacy of the individual.
• Only trained security personnel or other trained District staff may operate metal detectors.
• If a metal detector is activated, further inspection may be conducted, which may include a secondary screening, a bag inspection, or referral to law enforcement, as appropriate.
• In cases involving students, the building principal or designee must be notified immediately, and all searches must be consistent with the District’s Code of Conduct (Policy 5300).

Equity and Non-Discrimination

Screening procedures shall be applied in a uniform, nondiscriminatory manner. The District prohibits any use of metal detectors that targets individuals based on race, ethnicity, gender, disability, religion, or other protected classification.

Training and Oversight

The Superintendent shall ensure that all personnel operating metal detectors receive training in equipment use, student rights, de-escalation, and safety protocols. Periodic drills and reviews will be conducted to assess the effectiveness and fairness of procedures.

Parental/Community Communication

Students and parents will be notified prior to the District’s initial use of metal detectors and thereafter will be notified at the beginning of each school year, that metal detectors searches will take place. In addition, the District will communicate with parents/guardians and the community regarding the purpose, use, and procedures of metal detector screenings, reinforcing that the primary goal is to ensure student and staff safety.

Recordkeeping and Review

Each incident of metal detector activation and subsequent search shall be documented. The Superintendent shall provide an annual report to the Board summarizing usage, incidents, and recommendations for improvement.

Cross-References
Policy 5300: Code of Conduct
Policy 8130: School Safety Plans and Emergency Management
Policy 8110: School Building Safety

Legal References
U.S. Const., Amend. IV
New York State Education Law §§ 2801-a, 3214
NYCRR Part 100.2(kk), School Safety Plans

Approved by the Board of Education:            3/19/26
 

Download the PDF