Antioch High School in Metro Nashville will be closed to students on Monday, January 27, 2025, while teachers and staff use the day for planning and preparation following recent incidents. The school aims to enhance safety and security measures in collaboration with Metro Nashville Public Schools.
Students are expected to return on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The upcoming days will not follow the regular school schedule but will focus on supporting students’ emotional well-being. This includes grief counseling, mental health resources, restorative practices, and activities aimed at building community. The cafeteria will remain closed as it undergoes repairs and redesigns, with alternative lunch arrangements provided for students.
As part of the safety enhancements, Antioch High School will pilot the Evolv weapons detection system. This security technology, provided temporarily by System Integrations, is designed to quickly detect weapons and other prohibited items. Unlike traditional metal detectors, the Evolv system allows for a smoother entry process, as students do not need to remove personal items. The technology is already trusted by various schools and venues such as Nissan Stadium.
Superintendent Dr. Adrienne Battle emphasized the district’s commitment to safety and security, stating, “Antioch High will serve as a critical testing ground for this advanced technology, allowing us to assess its effectiveness as we explore funding opportunities to expand its use across more schools.”
To assist with the new procedures, families are encouraged to ensure that students bring only essential items to school. If the Evolv system flags any item, a secondary screening will be conducted as a precaution, not implying any wrongdoing.
Further updates on safety protocols and resources will be communicated to families. Metro Nashville Public Schools remains dedicated to supporting the Antioch High School community through these adjustments.
For more information, visit the Metro Nashville Public Schools website here.
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Three Students Arrested for School Threats
Three male students in Nashville, aged 13 and 14, were arrested for making separate threats against schools. The incidents involved threats made at Valor Flagship Academy, Haynes Middle School, and H.G. Hill Middle School. The students were charged with making threats of mass violence, with one also facing a charge for making a false report. The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department is taking these threats seriously and is committed to prosecuting the individuals involved.