Pinellas County, FL - Pinellas County school officials have ended a weapons detection pilot program ahead of schedule after reporting operational issues at two local high schools.
The pilot program was launched at Gibbs High School and Palm Harbor University High School as part of the district’s effort to evaluate new campus security technology.
The systems were installed at school entrances and designed to detect potential weapons while allowing students to move through checkpoints more quickly than traditional security screenings.
District leaders confirmed the program will conclude on April 17th, earlier than the original May end date.
Officials said the decision was influenced by concerns about disruptions to students and staff as schools approach state testing periods and other end of year academic activities.
During the trial period, students, parents, and staff reported issues including long entry lines, delays before classes, and false alarms triggered by common items such as laptops, binders, water bottles, and electronic devices.
School administrators acknowledged the operational challenges while reviewing feedback collected during the pilot program.
According to district officials, the weapons detection systems used sensors and artificial intelligence technology intended to identify possible threats without requiring every student to stop for manual bag checks.
The district said it will continue analyzing the data and feedback gathered during the trial before making decisions about future use of the systems.
Superintendent Kevin Hendrick said the district may still consider using similar technology during extracurricular events or other large gatherings while continuing to evaluate long term security options.
Officials stated that the early conclusion of the pilot does not end the district’s broader efforts to review campus safety measures across Pinellas County Schools.