As many already know, Bel Air High School, along with Harford County Public Schools, is introducing OpenGate Security Systems to detect weapons towards the end of this year and for next school year.
OpenGate Security Systems is a new weapon detection system that uses AI, and is not a metal detector. This groundbreaking weapon detection system provides the highest detection of people with backpacks, purses, and bags. CEIA Metal Detectors Official Website states that OpenGate Security Systems contains fast, automatic, and unprecedented screening, no divesting of luggage, and can be used indoors and outdoors.
OpenGate is quick to setup and install in buildings or high schools; only weighing 25 pounds with less than a one-minute setup time, according to CEIA Metal Detectors. Harford County Public Schools sent emails and phone calls to parents and guardians on March 18, 2025, about beginning to use OpenGate within the next few weeks. This will start in high schools and then move to middle and elementary schools if needed.
When the system is set up and installed, Harford County Public Schools notes that all visitors of any age, staff members, and all students must go through the security system and cooperate with staff.