By Glenn Rolfe

SEAFORD – New high-tech weapons detection systems, high-definition surveillance cameras, more visible transparency and expanded counseling for mental health and related issues.

It’s all part of the safety and security recipe the Seaford School District is implementing for the 2024-25 year.

Over the past five years, the district has committed to expanding a multifaceted approach to safety, school district officials announced July 29 in a release.

Based on community and parental feedback, the district in June announced its plans to purchase four additional OpenGate Systems, augmenting those already in place for the 2023-24 school year.

Four detection systems will be used daily at Seaford High School and two will be available as needed for the district’s other schools, Seaford superintendent Dr. Sharon DiGirolamo announced June 18.

The district says it has received a great deal of feedback from parents and community members about the use of the weapons detectors.

A weapons issue surfaced May 2 at Seaford High School when, during a disciplinary procedure, a search of student’s property revealed a firearm and a knife in his backpack. The student was arrested by Seaford Police and charged with multiple weapon and firearm offenses.

Recognizing the importance of mental health in overall school safety, the district has expanded its counseling and support services to aid students. The district employs seven social workers and partners with Nemours to have an elementary wellness center.

The schools also have contracts with various local agencies to bring many mental health counselors into the schools to remove any barriers that parents may have in getting their students to an appointment.

One of the cornerstones of the safety initiative is the installation of advanced security systems. This includes high-definition, real-time surveillance cameras strategically placed to monitor key areas both inside and outside of school buildings.

Additionally, the district announced it has entered into an agreement with the Delaware State Police and the Seaford Police Department, allowing these cloud-based systems to be accessed by first responders as well.

The district has had controlled access points for some time at all buildings. To further enhance security, visitors are required to check in at designated entry points, where they must present valid identification and undergo a quick background check.

In partnership with the Seaford Police Department, the district has had a school resource officer on staff for many years. Up until two years ago, this officer was housed at Seaford High School but would visit the other five schools periodically.

In 2022, two constables were added to the district staff. In 2023-24, it was increased to three constables, and this school year, the district will have five constables and one SRO, offering protection in all six school buildings.

The district also purchased a system of handheld radios that allows all the staff to communicate in real-time with each other.

Secondary schools will employ a mandatory clear book bag and backpack policy, making it easier for school staff to monitor and identify potential security threats.

Dr. DiGirolamo held a community phone call event in early July to address questions, including the use of tinted bags.

“We will only allow clear bags. Mesh and tint vary considerably in their level of transparency. Sticking with clear untinted plastic removes any confusion and the need for judgment calls by students, parents and staff members,” Dr. DiGirolamo stated. “The clear backpacks can have a logo.”

Regarding athletic equipment bags, Dr. DiGirolamo said, “We know our athletes have bags of equipment that will be carried to and from school. Our administrators will be working with coaches to create a plan for storing these items throughout the school day.”