How Upper Darby Schools Are Using AI to Detect Weapons
Upper Darby High School and two middle schools have implemented an AI-powered weapons detection system from Evolv. Installed in December, this technology has identified several potential weapons, including knives, brass knuckles, and pepper spray devices. Notably, no firearms have been detected so far.
According to School District Superintendent Daniel McGarry, the system detected seven knives or box cutters, two brass knuckles, and seven pepper spray devices by the end of the school year. Most of these items were not brought onto campus with intent to cause harm. “We don’t have any evidence that these weapons were coming on campus as a use of force,” McGarry explained. “It was usually an awkwardness like, ‘I had this because I was cutting food.’”
How the AI Detection System Works
Evolv’s system uses artificial intelligence to scan students quickly and accurately for potential weapons. It is deployed at Upper Darby High School as well as Beverly Hills and Drexel Hill Middle Schools.
Before installation, there were concerns about long entry delays, false alarms, and unnecessary student searches. McGarry noted, “Thanks to the work of our kids and our school community, none of those things actually happened.” The system has allowed schools to maintain safety without disrupting daily routines.
Follow-Up Procedures and Background Checks
When weapons are detected, items are turned over to local police. The school district also conducts background checks on the families involved and performs threat assessments when necessary. This approach helps ensure student safety while providing context for each situation.
The decision to adopt this AI technology came after two firearms-related incidents in September, underscoring the district’s commitment to proactive safety measures.
For educators interested in the role of AI in school safety and how technology can support safer learning environments, exploring AI training resources can be valuable. Visit Complete AI Training for courses on AI applications in education and safety technology.