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Board reviews Evolve weapons‑detection renewal and emergency wiring repairs after copper theft at Shirley Elementary
Summary
Chief Harris recommended renewing the Evolve AI weapons detection system after a successful pilot; the board also learned about an emergency repair at Shirley Elementary following copper theft that severed HVAC electrical feeds and required emergency purchase and wiring replacement.
Jackson Public Schools officials briefed the board on two related safety items: renewal of an Evolve AI weapons‑detection contract for district facilities and emergency electrical repairs at Shirley Elementary after a copper theft. Chief Harris described the Evolve system as an AI‑driven detector that allows multiple people to pass through while identifying items shaped like weapons and acting as a deterrent; the administration recommended renewing the contract for a three‑year term beginning July 1, 2026.
"It's an AI designed instrument that allows multiple people to pass through simultaneously, but it picks up on and detects on items that are in the shape or form of weapons," Chief Harris said, adding the system has helped deter attempts to bring weapons into schools. Board members asked for data on the number of incidents; Chief Harris said district data show fewer weapon‑related interactions than other districts and that the system has reduced attempts at intake.
Separately, Mr. Burks reported that on or about March 1, 2026, perpetrators cut a primary electrical feed on Shirley Elementary’s roof to steal copper, disabling HVAC systems and leaving about 60% of classrooms without air conditioning. The superintendent declared an emergency purchase to restore wiring (McKinnis Systems contracted); the administration said insurance does not cover electrical wiring or that the loss did not meet the deductible threshold, so operational funds were used. "We had to declare an emergency to restore that HVAC equipment," Mr. Burks said. Repairs have been completed and the district described additional security measures — including a planned $12 million camera installation and enhanced overnight security for shuttered properties — to reduce future intrusions.
The board received the reports and approved the Evolve renewal as an information item moved to action; trustees also accepted the emergency declaration as information since the superintendent had already authorized repairs.
