The Ouachita Parish School Board voted to approve the district's initial purchase of portable OpenGate detection systems for secondary campuses, citing the ability to screen backpacks, purses and bags for metal threats and contraband vapes.

Superintendent Orlando Fremont and colleagues said the district evaluated systems used by neighboring and larger Louisiana districts and recommended OpenGate as a "least invasive and most financially friendly" option. "We're recommending the addition of OpenGate detection system at our middle and high schools to begin with," Fremont said, proposing an initial buy of up to 40 units and 21 advanced systems with a budget number of $700,000 to come from the maintenance and operations capital improvement fund.

An OpenGate representative described the product as "designed for faster screening of individuals with backpacks, purses, and bags...for the detection of a large variety and number of metal threats." Board members asked about implementation and training; one member who attended a demonstration said he was impressed with the vendor's on‑site training package. Superintendent Fremont said the vendor estimated a 2–4 week lead time and the district hopes to begin on‑site training and deployment by mid‑January, though the holidays may delay delivery.

Board members acknowledged an implementation learning curve and emphasized the need for training and consistent use. A motion to authorize the purchase was made, seconded and approved with all members voting in favor.

Next steps: procurement will finalize purchase orders, the vendor will schedule on‑site training for principals and staff, and district communications will explain operational changes to families and schools.