Page 70 - Security Today, March/April 2025

C O V E R S T O R Y
After a thorough analysis, Fort Worth ISD chose Metrasens
Ultra for its cutting-edge technology, proven reliability, and seamless
integration into the district’s security strategy.
P U T T I N G S A F E T Y I N T O A C T I O N
In the spring of 2024, FWISD deployed six Metrasens Ultra weapon
detection systems during its graduation ceremonies. These sys-
tems were integrated into the district’s comprehensive security
strategy, which included collaboration with local law enforcement
and staff training.
Nearly 8,000 students, faculty, family members, and friends
attended FWISD’s graduation events. The Metrasens Ultra detectors
operated seamlessly, enabling attendees to move through security
checks quickly and efficiently without delays. This ensured that celebratory
events remained joyful while maintaining a secure environment.
Safety & Security Executive Director at Fort Worth ISD, Daniel
Garcia took the lead in finding the best solution for keeping Fort
Worth school events safe for all involved.
“For Fort Worth ISD graduations and other ceremonies, it’s
paramount that students, faculty and visiting families feel assured
and confident as they come together to commemorate these
special occasions,” said Garcia. “We are confident in our choice
of Metrasens Ultra to elevate our extracurricular safety efforts.”
The deployment of Metrasens Ultra has proven to be a game
changer, offering a seamless and discreet integration of advanced
detection systems. The result is an unprecedented level of security
that reassures everyone in attendance, from students to visiting
families, ensuring they can focus on celebrating these meaningful
moments without concern.
FWISD’s proactive use of technology in this capacity has set a
new standard for safety in educational institutions and has become
a model for other school districts across the nation to emulate.
T H E F E AT U R E S T H AT M A D E T H E D I F F E R E N C E
Fort Worth ISD’s decision to adopt Metrasens Ultra was driven by
the district’s need for a reliable, effective and adaptable solution
to address its security challenges. Safeguarding its diverse com-
munity required a system that delivered robust protection while
upholding the district’s commitment to inclusivity and efficiency.
The system stood out for its non-invasive, passive detection
technology, ensuring safety for everyone, including individuals with
medical implants or expectant mothers. This inclusive feature was
particularly crucial for a district serving a wide-ranging population
attending events like graduations and sporting activities. Rapid
screening capabilities were also a top priority. With thousands of
attendees moving through event entrances, Fort Worth ISD needed
a solution that could handle large crowds seamlessly, without
causing delays or disruptions.
Given the variety of venues where events are held, ranging from
10
indoor auditoriums to outdoor stadiums, portability and versatility
were equally important. Metrasens’ radiation-free technology further
addressed potential health concerns associated with traditional metal
detectors, offering a safe and secure experience for all attendees.
By combining these standout features, the system not only
met FWISD’s immediate security needs but also provided a long-
term solution that aligned with the district’s values and vision for
a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment. The Metrasens
Ultra has become a cornerstone of Fort Worth ISD’s commitment
to creating secure spaces that support learning, celebration, and
growth for its entire community.
C O M M U N I T Y I M P A C T
FWISD’s decision to deploy Metrasens Ultra systems demonstrates
the district’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being
of both students and the broader community. By adopting this
state-of-the-art technology, the district has not only enhanced
security during extracurricular events but has also sent a strong
message to families, staff, and visitors that their safety is always a
top priority. This proactive approach goes beyond merely imple-
menting security measures; it reflects the district’s dedication to
fostering a secure environment where students, families, and staff
can thrive without fear.
“As we open our facilities to families, it’s essential to offer
reassurance that Metrasens Ultra systems provide a completely safe
solution for all members of our school community,” Garcia stated.
“This technology allows us to ensure that students, faculty or
family member could fully enjoy events, knowing that their safety
is being actively monitored and protected.”
By leading with innovation, FWISD not only set a new
benchmark for safety but also emphasized the importance of
continuous improvement in school security. The deployment of this
technology underscores the district’s forward-thinking approach to
safeguarding students and staff, ensuring that as the community
continues to grow, their safety remains the highest priority. As a
result, other districts are taking note of FWISD’s success and exploring
similar solutions to bolster security at their own schools and events.
B E Y O N D G R A D U AT I O N : E X P A N D I N G S E C U R I T Y M E AS U R E S
Following the success of the weapons detection system deploy-
ment during graduations, FWISD began to explore additional op-
portunities to integrate these systems into other district events,
including sporting events and community gatherings. The district
aims to create a consistent and reliable security framework that
extends beyond individual events, ensuring a culture of safety
across all campuses.
P A R T N E R S H I P S A N D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L A B O R AT I O N
The success of FWISD’s safety initiative was a testament to the power