KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Knox County Schools will begin using weapons detection technology in all district high schools starting Monday as part of an expanded effort to strengthen campus safety and preparedness.
District leaders say the move follows years of research, evaluation and testing designed to find a solution that would improve security without disrupting the school day.
Superintendent Jon Rysewyk said the district intentionally took its time before implementing the system.
“It was piloted in a few high schools last year toward the end to see it, to make sure before it went live that it was not going to interfere with instruction, but really give us what the vendor said it would do,” Rysewyk said. “This really is our response. We said, I think, two years ago, three years ago, that we were going to look for the right solution for that. And I think we found it.”
Pilot Program Led to Districtwide Rollout
The weapons detection system was tested in several Knox County high schools during the spring semester before officials approved expansion to all high school campuses.
District leaders say the technology is intended to provide another layer of security while maintaining a smooth arrival process for students and staff.
Carlo Granillo, Knox County Schools’ Chief of Security, emphasized that the rollout is not tied to any single incident but is part of a broader proactive safety strategy.
“It’s not in response of anything, it’s being proactive,” Granillo said. “It’s adding an added layer of situational awareness and readiness for those things we do not want to have to face. That’s part of that, making sure we’re ready for the unexpected.”
Multi-Agency Safety Approach
The weapons detection program is one component of the district’s overall security plan.
Officials said Knox County Police Department officers and Knox County Sheriff’s Office personnel remain key partners in school safety efforts. District leaders expect to continue evaluating and adjusting security measures throughout the school year as needs evolve.
School officials say maintaining safe learning environments remains a top priority as students return for the new academic year.
Addressing Substance Violations on Campus
In addition to physical security measures, Knox County Schools continues working to address student use of prohibited substances on school grounds.
District data shows there were 393 incidents involving prohibited substances during the previous school year. Those incidents included violations involving nicotine products, vaping devices, marijuana and alcohol.
Rysewyk said vaping remains a significant concern because many students do not view it as seriously as other substances.
“I think some of that is forgotten about the vapes because they’re probably much more readily available,” Rysewyk said. “And so people kind of think of them just as not a serious drug. But they are and they have impact on our kids. And unfortunately, we have to deal with that a lot.”
Focus on Prevention and Education
District leaders say their goal is not simply to discipline students, but to change behavior through education and awareness.
Knox County Schools is working to ensure students understand the health risks associated with vaping, nicotine products and other substances. Prevention efforts include classroom instruction through health education courses and additional awareness initiatives throughout the school year.
Officials say combining security measures, law enforcement partnerships and prevention programs provides a more comprehensive approach to keeping students safe.
As the new school year begins, district leaders say both the weapons detection rollout and substance abuse prevention efforts are aimed at creating safer, healthier learning environments for students across Knox County.
