The Truth About Weapons Detection in Schools with Tom McDermott
- 57 minutes ago
- 2 min read
How can school leaders know whether weapons detection technology will actually make their schools safer?
In this episode of The Sound Off on School Safety, Michele Gay welcomes back Tom McDermott, K–12 Safety and Security Coach at CEIA USA, to explore one of the fastest-growing topics in school safety: weapons detection technology. Tom offers a candid perspective on how school leaders can move beyond the marketing and make informed decisions about technology based on their school’s unique risks, needs, and goals.
Drawing on his experience in K–12 safety and security, Tom explains why the conversation around weapons detection should never begin with a product. Instead, schools should first understand the threats they are trying to address, define what effective security looks like for their community, and consider how technology can support a broader, layered approach to school safety.
Throughout the episode, Michele and Tom unpack common misconceptions about weapons detection and explore the difference between metal detection and weapons detection. They discuss why schools need to clearly define their security goals before evaluating technology and how physical security fits into a comprehensive strategy that also includes people, planning, training, and trusted relationships.
The conversation offers practical guidance for school leaders navigating the growing number of weapons detection options available today. Rather than viewing technology as a standalone solution, Tom emphasizes the importance of considering how it works within the larger safety ecosystem—and whether it truly addresses the risks a school is trying to mitigate.
Above all, the episode offers a powerful reminder: effective school safety isn't about finding the right technology and calling the job done. It's about understanding risk, building thoughtful systems, and ensuring that technology strengthens—not replaces—the people, preparation, and relationships at the heart of safer schools.
Watch the full episode below:
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