Eight PGCPS Schools Require Metal Detectors and Clear Backpacks, New Board of Education Member Appointed

Dr. Millard House II, the newest PGCPS superintendent, made a major announcement on July 11: all PGCPS high schools and eight middle schools will now have mandatory metal detectors and compulsory clear backpacks.

“There is no tolerance for weapons inside our schools or on our grounds or on our school buses," said Dr. House. “Students don’t necessarily bring firearms to school to do harm. They’re bringing firearms, in many cases, to protect themselves to and from school.”

The open gate system they plan to use will screen for weapons, while not being activated by innocent items such as cell phones and phone chargers. The metal detector process will operate very similarly to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) airport metal detectors, as they are both operated by the same company.

Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) said she respects the incoming superintendent's decision to make these major changes and stands by the goal to keep kids safe.

5 Dr. Millard House, the new PGCPS superintendent, is implementing policy to require metal detectors and clear backpacks at all County high schools and eight middle schools.

“I think we are all on one accord that we want our students, staff and families to be safe. That's our number one priority,” said Alsob-

DC FUTURES is a new program that gives District residents up to $8,000 for college tuition. Students can choose from more than 50 in-demand fields.

Other benefits include:

• One-on-one coaching to help keep you on track.

JOCELYN

ROUTE APPOINTED TO PRINCE GEORGE'S BOARD OF EDUCATION

Jocelyn Route, a member of the Bladensburg City Council, was nominated on July 18 by the County Council to serve the remainder of retiring Prince George’s County Board of Education Member Curtis Valentine.

Route has a lot of plans to help strengthen the school system.

Psychological safety is just as important as our scholar’s physical safety. We need to solve the issue of why some of our scholars choose violence to deal with conflict,” Route told the Informer. WI

• $1,500 stipend for books, travel, and other extras.

• Emergency funds to cover some of life’s unexpected expenses, such as car repairs, rent, food, and child care.

So, whether you want to finish the degree you started, or start the degree you’ve always dreamed of, the first step is just a click away.

Learn more at osse.dc.gov/dcfutures.