The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain a top priority for the Watervliet City School District. With that in mind, the district will implement several new measures this fall to strengthen building safety and security.
Among these measures is a new metal detection system at the entrance to Watervliet Junior-Senior High School that will help ensure the safety of everyone who walks through our doors each day.
OpenGate Detection System
The metal detection system is part of our proactive and layered approach to providing a secure learning environment for students and staff.
Beginning in September, students will be screened as they pass through metal detectors each morning. Visitors will also be screened before entering the building during school hours. Additionally, students and all spectators at large-scale events after school and on weekends will be required to pass through the metal detectors.
For more information on this enhanced security screening procedure, please review the Frequently Asked Questions
As a reminder, weapons of any kind are not allowed on school district property. The walkthrough screeners can detect a wide range of metallic items to ensure prohibited items do not make their way into our schools. All students and visitors entering WJSHS may be required to submit to a metal detector screening to ensure no weapons are brought onto the premises. Bags and backpacks, etc. may also be screened using metal/weapon detecting wands. Refusal to cooperate with the screening procedure will result in denial of entry for students and visitors at after-school and weekend events.
New Safety and Security Measures for 2025-26 School Year
Other new safety and security measures that are part of our ongoing commitment to our students and staff include the following:
- Upgraded Security Camera System
Modernizing security cameras in both buildings for increased coverage and clarity. - Online Hall Pass System
A new online hall pass system at Watervliet Jr-Sr High School to help monitor student movement during the school day. - Campus Security Monitor
A dedicated employee to enhance our on-site safety. - WayFinder Bus Swiper System
Later this Fall, a new bus swiper system will be introduced for all students, to improve attendance and accountability on Watervliet City School District school buses.
Continued Safety and Security Measures
- Cell Phone-Free Environment
Our commitment to a cell-phone free learning environment with the use of Yondr pouches for all students, which helps reduce distractions and promotes a better learning atmosphere. - Partnership with Watervliet Police
Partnership with the Watervliet Police Department on a strategic and coordinated effort to support safety. - School Resource Officer
Collaboration with our district’s School Resource Officer (SRO) who works in our schools to help keep students and the community safe.
Your continued support is essential to our success. We look forward to working together to build a safer Watervliet City School District. Please reach out to your child’s building principal or Superintendent Dr. Donald Stevens, if you have questions.