Agenda Item
b. Approval of Lease - Evolv Weapons Detection with Alliance Technology Group (Not to exceed $1,650,000)
Summary: Presented by: Mr. Elijah Palmer, Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff Division,
Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations
Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the lease of additional Evolv Weapons Detection systems for select high schools, District Offices, and Stadiums for an amount of $1,650,000.
Why: The safety of students and staff in the DeKalb County School District is extremely important. DeKalb County School District has seen an increase in the number of weapons confiscated on district property. It has been proved since the implementation of the Evolv Weapon Detection System in 2023-2024, that a significant decrease in the number of weapons confiscated in school buildings. In the 2022-2023 school year there were total of 117 weapons (24 handguns) confiscated. In the 2023-2024 school year there were a total of 66 weapons (4 handguns) confiscated.
The EVOLV weapon detection systems were initially placed in 41 district middle and high schools. 50 single and dual lanes systems have been placed in the district’s high schools. 36 single and dual lanes systems have been placed in the district’s middle schools.
Prior to implementation of the EVOLV weapon detection system, the company representatives met with every school administration and security team to conduct an assessment review to determine locations in the school building with the greatest need for them. Some of the factors used to determine where to place them were student population, school layout, and morning arrival/entry into the building.
The rationale for the additional EVOLV systems was the increase in enrollments in these schools and the specific entry points that need to be covered.
Details: The Evolv Weapons Detection System combines powerful sensor technology with proven artificial intelligence, security ecosystem integrations and comprehensive venue analytics to ensure safer, more accurate threat detection at an unprecedented speed and volume. The technology allows individuals to enter school buildings without stopping, emptying pockets or bags or waiting in lines. Stations include technological devices that will be monitored by school safety personnel. The devices will identify specifically where the items in question are located to allow for quick intervention.
Financial impact: This purchase will be allocated under the Public Safety and Community Violence Reduction Grant in an amount not to exceed
$1,650,000.
100.2600.573000.05315.7510.4198.8010.010.0000 Equipment Purchase
100.2600.530000.05315.7510.4198.8010.010.0000 Equipment Installation
100.2600.561000.05315.7510.4198.8010.010.0000 Supplies
Contact: Mr. Elijah Palmer, Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff Division
Mr. Larry Wright, Acting Chief of Police / Executive Director, Chief of Staff Division 678.873.8921
Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678-676-1470
Effective: Upon Board Approval
Status: Approved by Legal
CHRONOLOGY OF THE AGENDA ITEM
At its business meetings on March 13, 2023, and August 14, 2023, The DeKalb Board of Education
approved entry and renewal of an agreement with Evolve Technologies, Inc. and its distributor, Alliance
Technology Group, LLC as sole source providers of the Evolv Weapons Detection System to provide
entryway detection systems in DCSD schools.
This agenda item seeks the Board of Education approval for entry into a new lease of additional Evolv
Weapons Detection Systems for 13 new locations for a four (4) year term.