Piedmont to install AI-powered Evolve screening system at high school, board says

The Piedmont Community Charter School board approved purchase of an Evolve Express safety screening system for the high school during its Oct. 15 meeting after a presentation by Pam Hostetler, identified in the packet as the high-school director.

Hostetler told directors the system differs from typical walkthrough metal detectors by allowing "students or visitors [to] walk through without removing coats, backpacks, or emptying pockets," which she said reduces the staff time required to screen large numbers of students. She said the system prioritizes detection of weapons and knives and that the vendor provides on-site setup and initial support.

Board members asked whether other schools have used the system; Hostetler cited examples in Charlotte. Directors also asked about staffing to respond to alarms and software updates; Hostetler confirmed the packet lists a four-year software subscription included in the quote but that the cost or vendor fees after four years were not specified in the materials presented.

The vendor quote for the equipment appears under differing names in the record: the packet references a quote from "Bridal Technologies," while the motion presented and approved by the board referenced a "Bright Light Technologies" quote. The transcript record is inconsistent on vendor spelling; the board approved the quote unanimously and asked staff to work with the vendor on installation and initial support, which the presenter said would likely take about a month from order to being set up and operational.

Questions remaining for administration include confirming the vendor's legal name and post-subscription maintenance or licensing costs and documenting staffing and operational procedures for alarm responses. The board directed administration to proceed with contracting and scheduling installation.