Anyone attending high school football games in Spotsylvania County must go through enhanced security measures starting Friday night.
School officials have installed the Evolv weapons detection center at the stadium entrances. There are two games in the county this Friday: Spotsylvania is hosting Brooke Point, and Massaponax is hosting Chancellor.
The Evolv technology is also in place at all five high schools during the regular school day, as well as the John J. Wright Educational and Cultural Center and the Spotsylvania Career and Technical Center.
All spectators will be required to pass through the weapons detection system. Further screening will be required if, when guests walk through the system, the light turns red. Event staff may then utilize a hand wand as part of the additional screening process. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to allow for extra time at entry.
The Spotsylvania County Public Schools’ no bag policy will remain in effect for all school events. This includes backpacks, purses, fanny packs, etc. Clear bags are allowed for use as a diaper bag or medical bag and are subject to search. It is recommended that individuals with implantable or wearable medical devices consult their device manufacturer or physician for information relating to their own specific device. An alternative screening approach can be requested for anyone who has safety concerns, but they should notify staff at the stadium entrance.
“The safety of our students, staff, and community is our priority,” Spotsylvania Superintendent Clint Mitchell said in a statement. “We are committed to providing a safe environment for all who attend our football games and appreciate everyone’s cooperation with this additional safety measure.”
The safety enhancements follow a large police response to an Aug. 29 game at Courtland High School against Massaponax. There’s also been an uptick in teen violence in the county, including a shooting on Monday in the Salem Fields neighborhood that left one 16-year-old hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after he was struck in the abdomen.
