Back-to-School 2026: GCPS security measures for the 2026-27 school year

     At Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS), student and staff safety is our top priority. We’ve implemented a comprehensive, multi-layered approach to create secure and welcoming learning environments.

Secure Entrances and Buildings:

• Security Vestibules: Every GCPS school features a secure vestibule—a double-door entry system with protective glass film. This design ensures a single point of entry, allowing staff to monitor and control visitor access.
• Raptor Visitor Management System: All adult visitors are screened against the National Sex Offender Registry before entering the school building.
• Weapons Detectors: GCPS has installed Evolv weapons detection systems in middle and high schools. This initiative aims to enhance safety by efficiently screening for weapons. Over the summer, GCPS launched a pilot program introducing Evolv weapons detection systems at five elementary schools during summer school. The pilot ran from Monday, June 8, through Friday, June 26, at the following schools – Burnette Elementary School, Cedar Hill Elementary School, Centerville Elementary School, Ivy Creek Elementary School, and Meadowcreek Elementary School.
• School Resource Officers (SROs): GCPS employs 130 School Resource Officers: two at each high school, one at each middle school, and several at elementary schools. GCPS is working to hire an SRO for each elementary school and employ security staff for each elementary until an SRO is hired. GCPS officers work in partnership with school personnel and local law enforcement to enhance security and provide a visible, reassuring presence on campuses.
• School Safety Officers (SSO): In addition to the Evolv system, the schools will be staffed with School Safety officers (SSO). SSOs are security personnel whose primary responsibility will be to operate the Evolv system during the school day, after morning arrival. Their presence ensures the system is used effectively throughout the day. It also allows school staff to remain focused on teaching and learning, while SROs continue to oversee the overall safety and security of the campus.

Surveillance and Emergency Communication:

• Security Cameras: Over 11,000 security cameras have been installed across all campuses, providing real-time monitoring capabilities.
• Emergency Response Buttons: Emergency-re­sponse buttons in all schools connect directly to the county 9-1-1 center and school police head­quarters, providing video feeds during emergencies.
• Centegix Crisis Alert System: All GCPS schools are equipped with the Centegix Crisis Alert system. This wearable badge allows staff to discreetly call for help during emergencies. It provides first responders with precise location details, down to the room and floor, ensuring swift assistance.
• Mental Health and Wellness Support: Our school counselors, social workers, behavior coaches, and psychologists are trained to identify students at risk of violent behavior and provide appropriate interventions. This proactive approach aims to address issues before they escalate, promoting a safe and supportive school environment.

Anonymous Reporting:

• P3 Campus and Tip Line: Students, parents, and staff can re­port safety concerns anonymously through multiple channels:
• P3 Campus Online: Submit tips at www.p3campus.com/5105  
• GCPS Tips App: Available for Apple and Android devices
• GCPS Tip Line: Call 770-822-6513 or text “GCPS” to 738477

Reports can include concerns about weapons, threats, bullying, drugs, or self-harm.

Addressing Concerns at School:  

Please see the Back-to-School guide for printed step-by-step instructions for addressing concerns at your child’s school, or visit www.gcpsk12.org/addressing-concerns