Dear Families,
The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors remain our highest priority at Cumberland County Public Schools. In an ongoing effort to strengthen school security, Cumberland County Middle and High School will begin implementing the OpenGate Weapons Detection System at the main entryways of both schools and selected athletic events and games, effective the week of March 23, 2026.
The OpenGate system is a modern, contactless weapons detection platform designed to enhance safety while allowing individuals to move quickly and efficiently through entry points. Unlike traditional metal detectors, OpenGate uses advanced sensor technology and artificial intelligence to distinguish between common personal items—such as phones and keys—and potential weapons. This allows for faster screening with minimal disruption to the start of the school day or entry into events, while maintaining a high standard of security. A short video describing the system and screening process can be found at the following link: https://youtu.be/bgT9ffeHAPI
All students and visitors will walk through the detection lanes upon entering the building or attending games. In the event the system identifies a potential concern, trained personnel will conduct a brief secondary screening. We ask that families allow a few extra minutes for arrival during the initial implementation period as everyone becomes familiar with the new process.
We appreciate your partnership and support as we continue to take proactive steps to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for all students. If you have questions, please contact your child’s school office.