August 4, 2023
Today, Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich shared the following letter about the district’s new OPENGATE security system being introduced at the start of the 2023-24 school year:
(Click HERE to read the letter in Spanish)
Kahok Families,
As the start of the school year draws closer, the district continues to share important information regarding the coming school year. Today’s update is about our new OPENGATE security system to screen people, backpacks and bags as they enter our schools.
OPENGATE is a state-of-the-art, fully-open, walk-through detection system that is already in use in stadiums, arenas, theme parks, hospitals, museums, theaters, convention centers and transportation hubs. It is portable, and can be used indoors or outdoors. CUSD 10 is one of thousands of districts throughout the county, state and country implementing the OPENGATE system to better protect our students, staff and visitors.
Since we announced in January the district would be implementing a new safety measure throughout the district, our security, technology and administrative staff have been working on its implementation. Principals evaluated student and visitor entrances at each school, and we developed staffing models to ensure proper supervision at those entrances.
As with anything new – especially involving technology – it takes time to learn the system and incorporate it into daily operations. We had been hopeful to start a trial period last spring, however, a delay in delivery prevented this from occurring as planned.
Therefore, in order to make sure our staff, students and families have a chance to adjust, a trial period will occur from the first day of school until September 1. This will allow each building to learn the specifics of the system in minimal locations and make adjustments for full implementation. The OPENGATE System will be fully put into practice and used daily throughout the school year beginning Tuesday, September 5.
This new security measure will require everyone’s patience as it could impact school drop-off and pick-up procedures. Watch for communication on drop-off and pick-up at each school. The first two weeks of school always require restraint and understanding as students, staff and families adjust – even when no major changes are being implemented. Keep in mind, the minor inconvenience we experience now is providing an added layer of safety and peace of mind in our schools.
Each day our district welcomes over 7,000 students and staff into our buildings. We have to always remember: no school district, business or public entity is immune from senseless violence despite our best efforts. We will continue to look for ways to protect our students and staff. Thank you for your support as our district evolves to maintain a safe and effective learning environment.
Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent