GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — The Gwinnett County Public School (GCPS) Board recently approved the installation of weapons detection systems in middle and high schools, although elementary schools remain excluded from this plan. This decision follows a recent incident at Meadowcreek Elementary School where a student discharged a firearm in a restroom, sparking a debate over safety measures.
Related Article: Georgia Elementary School Student Arrested for Shooting Campus Toilet
Two weeks ago at Meadowcreek Elementary, a student brought a gun from home and fired it at a restroom toilet, causing damage to a toilet but resulting in no injuries. The event has prompted an urgent call from parents and students for enhanced security protocols across all educational facilities in the district.
Current GCPS Security Measures and Community Reaction to Meadowcreek Shooting
The Gwinnett School Board has decided to implement weapons detection systems only in middle and high schools. However, in recognition of immediate security needs at elementary schools, the board has approved the temporary deployment of unarmed security officers, reports WSB.
These officers are tasked with monitoring school perimeters and ensuring all entry points remain secure. Importantly, they are not authorized to engage in disciplinary or criminal matters.
Parents have voiced their dissatisfaction with the board’s decision to exclude elementary schools from the weapons detection plan. At a recent school board meeting, some parents called for more comprehensive security solutions that cover elementary schools, not just middle schools and high schools.
Related Article: Enforcing School Cell Phone and Weapons Bans Without Chaos
In light of the Meadowcreek Elementary incident, law enforcement is contemplating criminal charges against the parents of the child involved.
