In light of last week’s tragic events, Metro Nashville Public Schools is taking immediate steps to strengthen safety and security at Antioch High School. The school will remain closed for students on Monday, January 27, 2025, as staff use the day to prepare classrooms, plan for the week, and reflect as a community. Students will return to campus on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
Prioritizing Emotional Well-Being
Tuesday and the remainder of the week will not follow a typical school schedule. Instead, Metro Nashville Public Schools will focus on the emotional well-being of students by offering grief counseling, mental health supports, restorative practices, and community-building activities. Additionally, an alternative lunch plan will be implemented while the cafeteria remains closed for ongoing repairs and reimagining.
Piloting Advanced Safety Technology
As part of these efforts, Antioch High School will pilot the new Evolv weapons detection system, a cutting-edge security technology temporarily loaned to the district through the generosity of System Integrations. This system enhances safety while maintaining a seamless and efficient entry process for students and staff.
About the Evolv System:
- Uses advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to detect weapons and prohibited items quickly.
- Allows students to walk through without removing all personal items, unlike traditional metal detectors.
- Trusted by schools and major venues, including Nissan Stadium, to enhance safety with minimal disruption.
“This pilot program demonstrates our unwavering commitment to safety and security,” said Superintendent Dr. Adrienne Battle. “Antioch High will serve as a critical testing ground for this advanced technology, allowing us to assess its effectiveness as we explore funding opportunities to expand its use across more schools. We look forward to learning valuable lessons from this pilot program to guide future decisions on expanding this technology to ensure safety across all of our schools.”
Key Information for Families:
- Students should bring only essential items to school.
- If an item is flagged by the Evolv system, a secondary screening will take place as an added precaution. This does not imply wrongdoing but ensures all flagged items are safe.
- Families are encouraged to review with students what they bring to school each day to help streamline the process.
Additional updates on safety protocols and resources will be shared with families in the coming days. Metro Nashville Public Schools remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Antioch High School community during this challenging time.