Parkland School Board directors have approved the purchase of a weapon detection service from ZeroEyes at an annual cost of $72,500 for a term of five years.

The action was taken at the Sept. 26 meeting.

The system employs artificial intelligence to detect a weapon and then tracks the individual carrying it to provide direction for security personnel.

“[The system provides] the ability to call 911 with a rapid S.O.S. to move to the head of the queue in a true emergency,” Director of Communication and Community Engagement Nicole Mehta McGalla said.

The weapon detection system works with district surveillance cameras.

The provider has a 24-hour human staffed service desk.

Dr. Anthony Naradko, director of safety and security, presented information on the company at a buildings and grounds committee meeting.

He reported ZeroEyes is the only weapons detection technology company supplying fully integrated packages of technology, methodology and client services.

Payment will be obtained from the safety and security general fund budget.

In another matter, during the public comment time, Rachel Farrow told the board she works against domestic violence.

Farrow asked the district to bring in trained advocates from Turning Point to provide prevention education.

The issue was alluded to as Superintendent Dr. Mark Madson began the meeting with moments of silence for the victims of a tragedy which had occurred recently in Catasauqua.

A Parkland High School senior was charged for committing a double homicide involving a domestic dispute.