Muscogee County Schools Implement New Safety Measures for 2025-26 Academic Year

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance school safety and promote a productive learning environment, the Muscogee County School District (MCSD) is rolling out a series of new security protocols for the 2025-2026 school year.

The district announced the implementation of secure vestibules, a weapons detection system, and restrictions on the use of personal electronic devices. These updates are intended to protect students, staff, and visitors across all MCSD campuses.

Many MCSD schools are now equipped with secure entrance vestibules, with additional campuses scheduled to receive them in phases. These controlled entry points will require all students, staff, and visitors to be screened and approved before gaining access to the main campus. Designated entrances will continue to be monitored by staff and security personnel during arrival times.

District officials said the initiative follows best practices recommended by law enforcement and adopted by school districts nationwide.

In accordance with Georgia House Bill 340, MCSD will limit the use of personal electronic devices during school hours for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Students are required to store cellphones, earbuds, smartwatches and other non-school-issued devices out of sight and refrain from using them from the beginning of the school day until dismissal.

Exceptions may be made by administrators or teachers for instructional use or during designated times such as lunch, before or after school, and extracurricular events. Unauthorized use during instructional hours will result in progressive disciplinary measures.

The district said the new policy is designed to improve classroom engagement and uphold academic integrity.

New weapons detection systems are being installed at the main entrances of all middle and high schools. The advanced screening technology allows students to pass through without removing items from their backpacks unless an alert is triggered. If so, trained security staff will conduct a quick, respectful search in a private setting.

Similar systems have been successfully deployed in public venues and other Georgia school districts. MCSD officials say the goal is to ensure a secure campus environment with minimal disruption to student flow.

Superintendent Dr. David Lewis acknowledged that the changes may prompt questions from families but emphasized that the district’s top priority is student safety.

“We understand that new safety protocols can raise questions, and we are committed to keeping communication open and transparent,” Lewis said. “These enhancements are made with one purpose in mind: to protect the well-being and future of every student entrusted to our care.”

The new measures will be in effect starting with the first day of school. MCSD encourages parents and guardians to review the updated policies with their children and reach out to school administrators with any concerns.

For more information, visit www.muscogee.k12.ga.us.