Manatee School District Eyes Expansion of AI Weapons Detection to All Middle Schools
Manatee County School District is preparing to take another step in its ongoing effort to enhance campus security by expanding its AI-powered weapons detection system to include all traditional middle schools by the start of the 2025-26 school year.
District leaders are set to propose a new staff position titled “Guardian Weapons Detection Systems Technician " at Tuesday's school board meeting. The role would be dedicated to overseeing the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and data analysis of the district’s existing and upcoming weapons screening systems.
The district introduced the Evolv detection system in August 2024 at all seven traditional high schools. Since then, the system has been used on a limited, randomized basis at several middle schools. Starting in August 2025, it is slated for full implementation across all nine of the district’s traditional middle schools.
The Evolv system uses artificial intelligence to identify objects that may resemble weapons, analyzing items within backpacks and other student belongings. Unlike traditional metal detectors, the system is designed to distinguish between benign items and potential threats, reducing the need for extensive bag checks while maintaining a safer campus environment.
District officials say the new technician position is essential as the use of these systems expands. The role would ensure daily machine monitoring, interpret system-generated data, and manage school performance and functionality. The machines track various metrics, including the number of students scanned each day, allowing district staff to monitor trends on a school-wide or district-wide basis.
The district has invested approximately $10 million in security improvements ahead of the current school year, which included campus infrastructure updates and the initial implementation of the Evolv screening technology. With leasing costs for the system projected to be around $600,000 for the next school year, the district is positioning itself to maintain long-term oversight and support through the addition of the new technician role.
School board members are expected to vote on the proposed position at the upcoming meeting. If approved, it will become a central component of the district’s broader school safety strategy.
