Volusia schools report large volume of threats and expand security measures including weapon detection trials

Captain Smith, director of Safety and Security for Volusia County Schools, told a briefing that the district has investigated a high number of tips this school year and is expanding security measures.

"All our gates are shut and locked. Our doors are shut and locked. We have to, everybody comes in through the single point of entry, so that we can vet any guests that come onto the school property," Captain Smith said, describing entry procedures and campus safeguards.

Smith said the district—s highest single-week tip volume reached 167, compared with 16 tips during the week of Dec. 9. Officials described multiple written threats that were investigated and, in several cases, led to identification and charging of juveniles, including a tip traced to Reading, Pennsylvania, and a suspect at Seabreeze High School.

The district has begun random screenings and planned tests of Evolve weapon-detection technology and continues to use metal detectors, an open-gate detector, and K9 Maverick to sniff for weapons. Smith said the district has installed more than 140 vape detectors and that the office of Safe Schools audited 21 schools so far.

Officials at the briefing also addressed traffic and parking congestion at school drop-off and pickup, saying the sheriff—s office and school safety teams will conduct traffic studies and work with city officials to improve flow and signage.

Ending: The district said screening and audits will continue, technology trials are underway, and parents and residents should report safety concerns to school officials and deputies.