OpenGate Weapons Detection System at Cocoa High School Snares Student With Handgun

GENE TRENT: Safety is always front and center here at Brevard Public Schools

BREVARD COUNTY • FLORIDA — Metal detectors installed at Cocoa High School this academic year detected a handgun in a student’s possession on Monday morning, according to a Brevard Public Schools official.

“The weapon was immediately confiscated, and the student was placed into police custody,” said a BPS spokesperson.  “All students on campus are safe. We understand how upsetting this news is, but we are fortunate to have these systems available on our campus to ensure our students’ safety.

BPS Board Chair Gene Trent said the proactive installation of the advanced weapons detection systems OpenGate at Cocoa High helped ensure the safety of students.

“Safety is always front and center here at Brevard Public Schools,” said Trent.

Last year, Brevard Public Schools officials announced the district would install the OpenGate weapons detection systems at Space Coast high schools during the 2024-2025 school year, and key points include:

■ Commitment to Safety: The safety and security of our students, faculty, and staff remain our highest priority. As part of this commitment, BPS began to install OpenGate walk-through, state-of-the-art weapons detection in 2024. All high schools will be complete by March 2025.
■ Efficient and Non-Intrusive Screening: The OpenGate systems are designed to quickly and non-intrusively scan individuals for dangerous or prohibited items as they enter school buildings. This technology will help maintain the flow of foot traffic, minimizing delays during student drop-off and entry into school while ensuring a safer environment for all. Students and visitors will pass through the gates as they enter, with laptops or items removed from backpacks to prevent unnecessary alerts.
■ Clear Procedures for Alerts: If the system triggers an alert, the individual is subject to a secondary search.

“I’m thankful to the School Board for providing this additional layer of security and our partnership with the Sheriff’s Office for working to get this state-of-the-art weapon detection system into our schools,” said BPS Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell.

As these systems are rolled out, Brevard Public Schools will continue to prioritize transparent communication with parents and guardians, ensuring they are fully informed about the new procedures and how they will impact daily routines.

“The goal is to maintain a safe, welcoming environment for all students while minimizing educational disruptions,” said Trent.

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