Baltimore County Public Schools Eyes $2.66M Contract For Advanced Gun Detection Tech

BALTIMORE COUNTY - Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) officials have proposed a $2.66 million contract to the Board of Education of Baltimore County to introduce cutting-edge gun detection technology in schools.

According to Board member Julie Henn, the potential agreement aims to implement the Omnilert gun detection software, camera surveillance equipment, response training, and 24/7 support for all schools.

Omnilert would first be piloted at high schools, followed by middle schools, with a complete rollout expected by February 29, 2024.

According to its website, Omnilert Gun Detection software emphasizes both security and privacy. In situations where a potential threat is identified, alerts, complete with relevant video, imagery, and location data, are relayed to designated authorities, ensuring immediate response.

The platform's versatile notification system allows alerts to be disseminated through multiple channels, from texts and emails to mobile apps and alarms, guaranteeing swift communication during emergencies.

The gun detection system is already operational in Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) and has received praise from Jason Stoddard, CCPS director of school safety and security.

In an interview with the Southern Maryland Chronicle, Stoddard highlighted the system's proficiency in providing real-time detection and the pivotal minutes it affords officials in potential threat scenarios.

"Through system alerts, we will be able to notify police more quickly of a possible safety concern and place a school or campus in an emergency code faster. The technology provides advance warning before a situation occurs," Stoddard said.

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