Lawrence school board likely won’t support metal detectors in schools

District staff is still researching some potential security measures to improve school safety, but some board members have already made it clear that staff shouldn’t waste too much time on metal detectors.

Ron May, director of operations, gave the board a presentation on safety and security at its Monday meeting. He outlined several initiatives in progress and provided some updates.

Many in the Lawrence community have been paying heightened attention to safety of school buildings, particularly at Lawrence High School, in the wake of several weapons- and threat-related incidents over the past few months. Specifically, in the span of two weeks in February, two students were reportedly caught carrying loaded guns at the school, and another was reportedly caught with a Taser.

In response, the district held two community conversations on public safety at which attendees were asked to provide input and suggestions to improve security. One that came up repeatedly was installing metal detectors, and/or having students carry clear backpacks.