Shelby County Board approves $138K Raptor visitor management system for school safety

The MSCS Committee Meeting held on July 9, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding school safety and resource allocation for Shelby County Schools. The meeting began with a review of the agenda, emphasizing the importance of decisions based on the needs of the schools.

One of the primary topics addressed was the Raptor visitor management system. The committee discussed the necessity of a one-year, annually renewable contract for the system, which is designed to enhance campus security across the district. The proposed contract amounts to $138,845 and will provide software subscription services to 166 MSCS sites, including early learning centers, elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as administrative buildings.

The Raptor system aims to strengthen security by screening and tracking all individuals entering school facilities. It specifically focuses on restricting access to individuals listed on local and national offender registries, thereby creating a safer environment for students, staff, and visitors. The committee highlighted the alarming statistic of over 2,800 registered offenders residing in the Memphis area, marking a 4.6% increase from the previous year. The Raptor platform is expected to enhance monitoring and prevent unauthorized access, aligning with the district's safety goals and improving accountability through digital documentation.

Additionally, the meeting included a brief overview of the financial implications of the Raptor system, noting that the funding would come from a public safety grant. The committee members engaged in discussions about the system's functionality, including its use for visitor sign-ins and volunteer tracking.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving school safety through the implementation of the Raptor visitor management system, with a focus on protecting students and staff from potential threats. The next steps will involve finalizing the contract and ensuring the system is operational for the upcoming school year.