District says $150,000 in safety grant will fund metal detector purchases for athletic events; staffing needs raised

Iredell‑Statesville Schools staff said the district applied for a school safety grant, was awarded just north of $150,000 of the requested $400,000, and plans to use the money to purchase several metal detectors primarily for athletic events and targeted screening.

Facilities or safety staff explained the award and implications: "We applied and received just north of $150,000 for our safety grant. We applied for $400,000 but were awarded 150," said Mark Shankirik (facilities staff). He said the district will collect bids for equipment and bring a purchase recommendation to the board at a future meeting.

Board members asked how detectors would be used and what operational costs they carry. Staff said the grant amount would not buy enough detectors to screen every entry point during a typical school day; the plan is to provide several detectors at each high school to support game‑day screening and targeted school events. Board members emphasized the staffing implications: continuous screening for daytime visitors requires paid staff or additional assigned personnel. "The initial cost is not the cost really we were concerned about... it does require someone if you're going to screen everyone that comes in during the day," a board member said, noting the need for additional personnel if daily, schoolwide screening were implemented.

Staff said the district will prioritize sites where visitor flow concentrates (car riders, bus riders) so detectors can be deployed efficiently and avoid installing equipment at an excessive number of entrances. The board requested staff return with bids, a use plan and cost estimates, including ongoing personnel costs, before any purchase is finalized.