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Gwinnett County Public Schools

Evolv Weapons Detection System

Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) is moving forward with the next phase in its commitment to student and staff safety.

Beginning Monday, August 25, 2025, the district will begin installing Evolv weapons detection systems in all GCPS middle and high schools. The rollout will start with high schools, followed by middle schools, and is expected to continue through the fall, concluding by the end of March 2026.

In addition to the Evolv system, GCPS schools will be staffed with School Safety Officers (SSOs). These security personnel will be responsible for operating the Evolv system during the school day, following morning arrival. Their presence ensures the system is used effectively throughout the day, allowing school staff to remain focused on teaching and learning. School Resource Officers (SROs) will continue to oversee the overall safety and security of each campus.

“By bringing this advanced weapon detection technology to all of our middle and high schools, we’re strengthening our comprehensive, multi-layered approach to school safety,” said GCPS Interim Superintendent Dr. Al Taylor. “This approach includes School Resource Officers, state-of-the-art technology, and reinforcing our ‘see something, say something’ culture.”

Evolv technology uses low-frequency electromagnetic fields and advanced software to detect concealed weapons such as firearms and other weapons of mass destruction. Unlike traditional metal detectors, Evolv’s system can tell the difference between dangerous items and everyday items like cell phones and keys, making the entry process faster while maintaining a high level of security.

What to Expect

  • Students and visitors will walk through Evolv scanners at designated entry points.

  • Phones, keys, and wallets can stay in your bookbags, pockets, and purses.

  • If an alert is triggered, a brief secondary screening will be conducted by staff.

  • Arrive a few minutes early to allow for smooth entry.

During the 2024–25 school year, the Evolv system was used at GCPS football stadiums, gyms, and high school summer school sites. Dr. Taylor says that experience laid the groundwork for its broader implementation across all secondary schools. He adds, “The Evolv system’s ability to quickly and accurately identify potential threats—without causing delays—supports our ongoing efforts to enhance safety and maintain a focused, welcoming environment for students and staff. This expansion builds on our earlier success and ensures consistent protection districtwide.”

Installations will proceed at a steady pace of about three schools per week. Each school will receive support to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Families will hear directly from their schools about what to expect, including any changes to arrival procedures, signage, or other logistics related to the new systems.

As this effort gets underway, we thank our families and staff for their support and partnership. With continued collaboration, GCPS remains focused on creating learning environments that are safe, welcoming, and focused on student success.

Please review these Frequently Asked Questions about the Evolv Weapons Detection System.