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Sheldon ISD reviews portable 'Open Gate' metal detectors, highlights throughput and ownership advantages
Summary
District security staff demonstrated portable Open Gate walk-through metal detectors, saying devices increase screening throughput and are portable, IP66-rated and sold without ongoing subscription fees; board members asked about durability, training and funding sources.
Sheldon ISD security staff presented a proposal for portable Open Gate walk-through metal detectors and outlined how the devices could be deployed at campuses and events.
Leroy Bradley, identified in meeting materials as the district's director of security and emergency management, described the Open Gate units as portable, weather-rated and designed for higher throughput than the district’s older detectors. Bradley told the board, "You can get about 2,700 people through this in an hour," and said students wouldn’t need to remove backpacks during screening because the system is tuned to specific threat signatures.
The presentation included demonstrations seen by other Texas districts, descriptions of a two-part training program (an 80–90 minute classroom session followed by live screening), and manufacturer support and warranty features. Bradley noted the Open Gate units communicate through an app so district technicians can monitor device status remotely rather than visiting each detector to check settings.
He contrasted Open Gate with subscription-based competitors, saying the alternative often uses an ongoing monthly service model. Meeting remarks cited a competitor model that charges approximately $2,000 per month per unit for service and does not transfer ownership to the district; by contrast, Bradley said Open Gate is purchased outright and includes warranty and support in the vendor quote.
Board members questioned durability, recommended accessories and funding. In response, staff said the units are made of thick polymer, are robust in testing, and the district planned to buy optional wheeled bases for easier movement and purchased bases to improve stability. A board member also noted grant funds were identified to offset at least part of the cost for a pilot deployment.
The presentation closed with staff noting additional campus-level trials and continuing conversations about how many units to buy and where to station them for maximum benefit. No formal procurement vote was recorded on the record during this segment; staff indicated a recommendation and follow-up materials would be provided to the board for later action.
