Safety Initiatives

Why Did D113 Schools Choose Weapons Detectors for Our Schools?

The District is constantly evaluating its safety and security measures. This expansion of the weapons detection systems is a proactive measure to prevent potential threats from entering the school environment. Weapons detectors serve as a preventive tool, adding an extra layer of security as part of the District’s strong commitment to maintaining a safe learning environment. 

Is this an Expansion in Response to a Particular Threat?

No. As stated above, the District is constantly evaluating its safety and security measures, as well as learning the research from experts like the FBI, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Secret Service, the National Threat Assessment Center, etc. Best practices and procedures evolve over time and that is exactly what we do in District 113. 

How Does the Randomization Process Work?

Every time a student scans their ID as they enter the building a random number is generated. That number will determine if that particular student is in the pool selected for screening. The percentage of the student body to be screened on a daily basis will be determined by the District Security Director.

How Many Times Can a Student Be Selected for Screening?

Since the selection process is randomized, there is no limit to the number of times an individual student can be selected for screening. There is also a possibility of being chosen for weapons screening on consecutive days. 

Who Will Staff the WDS Units? 

The weapons detection process, and the electronic screening devices, will be managed and operated by trained D113 security personnel.

When Will Expanded, Randomized WDS Screening Start?

For security reasons, an exact date will not be announced.

If Selected, What Will Students Need to Do to Proceed Quickly through the WDS?

Students will need to remove any metal objects (laptops, water bottles, metal binders, glass cases, phone cases, etc.) from their pockets and bags. These items will be placed in a bin and the student will proceed through the screening device. The items placed in the bin will be checked by the WDS operator and returned upon successful completion of the screening process. 

Is District 113 Screening for Drugs?

No. However, any items that are prohibited by school policy and discovered during the screening process will be confiscated. The matter will then be referred to the Dean's Office for further action.

How Does the K9 Weapons Detection Program Complement the Expanded, Randomized WDS Screening?

Both of these programs are designed to deter and detect the presence of weapons on D113 property. The WDS will be deployed at our entrances to screen students and visitors as they arrive. The K9 Weapons Detection Program will operate in all areas of the building during the school day to provide continuous mobile surveillance as complementary detection coverage.

What Happens if a Weapon is Found?

District 113 has a zero-tolerance policy for weapons on school grounds. Anyone attempting to bring a weapon into our schools will have the weapon confiscated and will be immediately referred to law enforcement for criminal charges. 

How Does the Weapons Detection System Work?  

The system utilizes two towers that students and visitors walk through at a natural pace. If the towers turn green, no potential threat has been detected and the individual passes through without stopping. A staff member will assist in monitoring the screening device to identify if a potential threat has been detected. If a potential threat is detected, the student or visitor will move to the secondary screening process.

Will the Detection System Alert for Vapes? 

Yes, the system is capable of detecting vapes and similar devices. See answer immediately above. 

Is the Detection System Safe for People with an Implanted or Wearable Medical Device? 

In keeping with FDA guidance on Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) and walk-through weapons detectors, it is recommended that visitors and system operators with implantable or wearable medical devices consult their device manufacturer or physician for information relating to their own specific device. An alternative screening approach is recommended for anyone who has safety concerns. 

Are These Systems Safe for Long-term Exposure, i.e. for Individuals Screening Daily or Personnel Operating the System? 

The detection system uses extremely low-frequency radio waves (ELF) - a non-ionizing sensing modality - in compliance with the Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineer’s (IEEE) 2019 guidance for safe operation with the general public, which applies to regular/occupational as well as infrequent exposure. 

Will District 113 Use WDS Outside of the Regular School Day?

Any further deployment of the WDS will be evaluated at a later time.

Why Doesn’t District 113 Use the WDS to Screen Every Student Every Day?

The District continues to focus on a multi-layered approach to school safety and security. The electronic weapons detection process is being implemented in a manner that supports our other strategies and is scalable on an as-needed basis. All of our security measures have been designed to limit disruptions in the educational process and minimize impact on the school’s positive climate and culture. 

In addition, weapon screening every student every day, at the sensitivity necessary to be truly effective, requires the infrastructure and staffing typically seen at U.S. airports. 

How Can Parents/Guardians/Caregivers Support this Initiative?

Parents and caregivers can support this initiative by ensuring their students understand the procedures and comply with the rules. District 113 appreciates the community's support and partnership in maintaining a safe educational environment. Everyone can support safety in District 113 by speaking up to report concerns by submitting an anonymous tip to the D113 Tip Line by phone or text at (844) 224-1521, or through the web portal. In an emergency, call 911. 

Read the communication about implementation during the 2024-25 school year. 

Read the communication about the summer school 2024 pilot. 

Why is District 113 implementing a K9 team at each school?

After a successful pilot during summer school, District 113 is implementing this additional layer to its comprehensive safety and security program. The K9 team will be able to provide continuous surveillance throughout the school day to help mitigate against the threat of someone bringing a concealed firearm to school.

What breed of dog will serve as part of the team?

The dog's breed is typically a Black Labrador mix, see example photo above. These dogs are specially bred to work around students.   

Why is District 113 waiting to implement this program until later this year?

As explained in the August 6 meeting, once approved, the program takes approximately 3-4 months for the K9 team to be ready for deployment. The dogs are specially bred and trained to work around students and the handlers are specially trained to work with their partner dog. The K9 pair do not deploy for work until all training and certification is completed and the handler is able to domicile in the local area of service. 

Will the dog bark if it finds something?

No, the dog will not bark. If the dog detects a possible scent related to a firearm/explosive, the dog will discreetly notify the handler.  

Will the dog bite?

No. The dog is trained to be calm and professional. Any dog that does not meet the rigorous training protocols and certifications will not be put into service. 

What if I am allergic to or afraid of dogs?

District 113 will work with the student or staff member to best address that particular individual’s concern. District 113 students and staff should contact the school security manager or email Security113@dist113.org.  

How is the dog treated?

The dog is treated well. The K9 team is truly a team with the dog living and working with its handler. The dog has rest periods and breaks built into the schedule. 

Does the dog get breaks?

Yes, the K9 team will generally work 45 minutes and then take a 15-minute break. 

How will people know if the dog is working?

Like many service dogs, the dog will wear a vest that indicates the dog is working. When the dog is taking a break or resting, the dog’s vest may be removed to indicate that it is break time. 

Can I pet the dog?

When the dog is working, the dog should not be approached like a pet. When the dog is on break, the handler will determine the appropriate level of interaction. 

When will the K9 teams work? 

The K9 teams will work throughout the school day. The teams will also work during select extracurricular events and activities. 

Is K9 detection effective?

K9 detection has a proven track record of success and is many highly populated settings as part of a comprehensive safety mitigation approach. 

Security Update – September 10, 2024 Committee of the Whole Meeting

The following improvements are in addition to the student services, supports and well-being protocols that are already in place. 

• Security Improvements Made since 2022
• Security Film on Exterior Glass
• Exterior Card Readers 
• Hallway Card Readers
• Classroom Card Readers
• Enhanced Security Cameras
• Security Operations Center - (Camera Room)
• Visitor Weapons Detections Systems - (WDS are setup at the main entrances after student arrival for visitors and late student arrivals)
• Support of clubs for students in no club or sport   
• Enhanced Tip Line
• Devices for Emergency Communications to Substitute Teachers 
• Restorative Centers at each building to focus on de-escalation strategies for students 
• Reinforcing school values through evidenced-based social and emotional learning curriculum

Future Enhancement

• K9 Weapons Detection Teams
  • One K9 team per school
  • Risk mitigated: Deters individuals from bringing firearms into District 113 facilities.  Also, detects firearms that have been brought into the building by providing continual surveillance.