Lake County Gazette

Limestone Community High School is making changes to its safety procedures as it works to improve security measures for students and staff. Superintendent Keith Brown provided an update to families about ongoing efforts, including the current use of handheld metal detectors and bag checks for all students entering the building.

Brown thanked Bartonville Police Chief Segree, Deputy Chief Miller, School Resource Officer Ott, and the Bartonville Police Department for their partnership in keeping the school safe. He also acknowledged the Board of Education’s role in supporting these initiatives. "I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Bartonville Police Chief Segree, Deputy Chief Miller, School Resource Officer Ott, and the entire Bartonville Police Department for their strong partnership and commitment to helping us keep our school safe. I also want to thank the Board of Education for their stewardship and dedication in keeping LCHS safe for our students, faculty & staff, and families," Brown stated.

Currently, all 850 students are screened each morning with help from about 15 personnel—including four or five police officers—which has caused a strain on staffing and impacted class time. The district is seeking a more sustainable solution by purchasing walk-through metal detectors. According to Brown, "These units will allow students to enter at a normal pace while detecting weapons, and they can be managed by our administrative team and SRO. This will provide both safety and efficiency, reducing the strain on personnel and minimizing the loss of instructional time." He hopes these new detectors will be operational within seven to ten days.

While awaiting installation of the new equipment, existing procedures will continue. To reduce disruption during morning entry checks, Rocket Academy will temporarily move to the start of the day next week so that instructional periods are less affected.

Families were reminded of several expectations: clear bags are strongly encouraged; only two doors (Circle Drive Door 1 and Welcome Center Door 14) may be used for morning entry; after 7:45 AM all entries must go through the Welcome Center; propping open doors or letting others in through other entrances is prohibited; metal detection may reveal other banned items such as vape devices—discipline will follow according to handbook policies; refusal or attempts to bypass searches will result in disciplinary action.

"Safety is everyone’s responsibility and we must continue to work together to maintain a secure school environment. As always, please remember: 'See Something, Say Something, Do Something.' Your cooperation and adherence to these standards are greatly appreciated," Brown said.

He concluded by thanking families for their flexibility during this transition period: "The safety of our students and staff will always remain our highest priority and your support has been critical in making these protocols work."