STEUBENVILLE — Security has been strengthened at Steubenville City Schools with metal detectors now on hand at two of its buildings.

Steubenville High and Harding Middle schools have been equipped with MIS Security’s RONIN System, which features metal detectors that are minimally invasive and fast screening. The systems have been used to protect military personnel and American assets overseas, but now are utilized at schools, businesses and other locations. School staff members operate the systems throughout the day and administrators said it has been a positive addition to ensure heightened safety.

SHS Principal Aaron Newman said the detectors were installed over the summer and both staff and students have been navigating the change beautifully.

“It’s been a very good start at SHS,” he said. “I’m proud of the students and staff for adjusting amazingly well to new procedures and policies at the high school this year.”

He said all students are required to pass through the metal detectors each morning, placing belongings such as cellphones, keys and ear buds in bins near the commons area entrance. The detectors operate all day and any student entering the facility must be screened. A small iPad includes camera monitors and a sensor denoting where an item may be on the person should the detector alert, which would then require use of a detector wand for secondary screening. Officials said the equipment is sensitive and may detect belt buckles and other items, but they are very effective protection tools.

“It is a process that’s new for our students and causes some delays when entering the building, but overall I’m so proud of their attitude, their flexibility and what quick learners they have been. We’re seeing lines moving fast, everyone’s working together and there’s a real collaborative spirit out there. It’s the polar opposite of what you experience with a TSA at the airport. They are navigating the obstacle with the detectors quite well.”

Newman continued that the estimated 700 students may wait several minutes in line but they are patient and understand the move was for a common good. He also praised the teachers who went above and beyond to make the process smooth and efficient.

“It’s just another layer of security because our students’ safety, security and overall well-being are of paramount importance.”

Harding Principal Bryan Mills agreed, saying the detectors were a way of taking a proactive stance in the schools.

“The implementation of metal detectors is a demonstration of the school district’s proactive commitment to safety. As educators, the safety and well-being of our staff and students always come first and everyone here at Harding Middle School has embraced the added layer of security,” Mills commented. “I really appreciate the parents, staff and students’ patience and support through the first day of school. It’s amazing to me how quickly our school community seamlessly caught on to the new entrance process and continues to represent ‘Pride, Tradition and Excellence’ of our schools.”

Additionally, the district has implemented a cellphone and electronic device policy as a further measure. The rule aligns with state regulations and prohibits students from using cellphones, headphones and related items during school hours. The only exceptions are if the phones are required for medical purposes or Individual Education Plans or related situation that mandate the use of phones as part of their accommodations.

“I am so proud of our students because we tell them the phones cannot be seen, heard or used. It was something that needed addressed, and fortunately the state legislature passed a bipartisan bill that really puts the interests of students in Ohio first, so we aligned our policies to adhere to the law,” Newman continued. “It’s improved the climate and culture in our building as a result. The students understand it’s in their best interest.”

He commented that continuous cellphone use could prove detrimental to their mental health, academic performance, social interaction and relationships with family and friends.

“The fact that we have drastically reduced the presence and use of phones during the school day, I think it’s a big win.”

Superintendent Melinda Young said having the policies in place ensure that Steubenville schools remain a safe and positive learning environment.

“We really instituted it at the middle school and high school for the safety of our students and for the parents who send their students to us,” Young commented. “It’s been going well and the parents have also been very supportive of the phone policy.”