Weapon detection system could be installed in Upper Darby school district

UPPER DARBY TOWNSHIP, PA – The Upper Darby School District is again exploring the possible use of a weapons detection system.

Superintendent Dr. Daniel McGarry will present details of the proposal Tuesday night at the school board committee meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. at the district offices.

McGarry said community members attending the meeting will have the opportunity to see the Evolv weapons detection system up close and see a demonstration of how it works.

“It’s not a metal detector. It uses artificial intelligence and looks for images or what might look like a firearm. It can detect metals similar to what’s in the barrel of a firearm,” McGarry said. “I care about safety in our district. It would be a lie if I didn’t care. It’s certainly a priority for me and our team. Do I think our schools are unsafe? No.”

A gun control system has been discussed in the Upper Darby school district in the past, but McGarry said this time the conversation is being led by the school board and the community.

An online petition is circulating to increase security at Upper Darby schools and has more than a thousand signatures.

The case follows several incidents involving firearms. On Sept. 3, McGarry said a student who was under the influence of alcohol was also found in possession of a firearm.

On September 13, the superintendent said another student was arrested with an AR-15 magazine.

“I think we were lucky on September 3rd. Some would say we were perfect and everything was perfect. We were lucky that everything went well and our procedures worked well,” McGarry said. “Right now, I think it’s time for the community and the school board to come together and think about what’s best here in the schools and the district and make that decision.”

The Evolv weapons detection system could cost the district between $1.5 million and $2 million, McGarry said.

School staff visited the Reading School District and Lincoln Financial Field where the Evolv system is already in use for security.