Katy ISD Adds Non-Invasive Security Devices at Event Venues

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

September 16, 2022

By Natalie Cook Clark

Katy ISD will soon have security devices at the entrances of both Legacy and Rhodes stadiums, the Leonard Merrell Center, and the Agricultural Sciences Center. These non-intrusive devices are meant to screen visitors for objects prohibited by the District. The first devices are being set up at the Merrell Center and will be in effect this Saturday.

Photo by Bob McSpadden

First Devices Start Working Saturday

Katy ISD let parents, staff and patrons know yesterday that they will be adding security devices to the entrances at both Legacy and Rhodes stadiums, the Leonard Merrell Center, and the Agricultural Sciences Center. These devices are non-invasive and do not require the removal of personal items.

“Safety and security are Katy ISD’s number one priority,” said Katy ISD in their statement announcing the devices. “Your support is appreciated as we continue to deliver upon our promise to implement and enhance measures and practices designed to protect our District’s students, staff, families and patrons.”

The District provided the image reference below:

The District did not mention adding these devices to any schools. This is only for large events. The same events that require clear bags, which limit the size and items brought into District events. Clear bag regulations includes:

• Clear, plastic, vinyl or PVC bags

• Clear, plastic, one-gallon, re-sealable, Ziploc-style bags

• Clutch bags approximately the size of a hand (4 ½” X 6 ½”)

• Medically necessary items

Visitors who do not follow the guidelines are not permitted to attend District events.

The following items are prohibited at Katy ISD events. This is list is subject to change. A current and updated list can be found online.

• Aerosol Cans

• Alcohol

• Animals/Pets (except service animals)

• Balloons and Beach Balls

• Cans, Bottles, Glass, or other Beverage Containers

• Clothing with derogatory or obscene language

• Coolers or Ice Chest

• Illegal Drugs

• Large Bags and Purses (In accordance with the Katy ISD Clear Bag Policy)

• Laser Pens and Pointers

• Noisemaking Devices (i.e. whistles, air horns, cow bells)

• Outside Food and Beverage

• Professional Photography Equipment

• Poles to Display Banners, Flags, etc.

• Skateboards and/or Rollerblades

• Tripods and other equipment that could pose a tripping hazard

• Unapproved pamphlets, handouts, advertisements, etc.

The District has received a small number of the security devices and is installing them at the Merrell Center. The expect to start utilizing those devices at District and non-District events hosted at the Leonard Merrell Center this Saturday. Once the additional devices arrive they will be installed at the entrances of the District’s two stadiums and Ag Sciences Center.

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