Our top priority is keeping our students, staff, and schools safe. We do so by implementing a multi-layered approach that includes safety measures on our campuses, at our games, and with the community's involvement.

On-campus safety and security 

At the school level, Duval County uses a variety of tools and strategies to maintain safe environments. 

• School hardening. Thanks to funding through the half-penny sales tax, all schools have received significant security upgrades and updates such as identification-controlled door access systems, radio access, improved fencing and lighting, and camera surveillance. 

• Weapons detection systems.  Walk-through EVOLV weapons detector systems are installed at each of our high schools and are being installed in middle schools. Traditional walk-through and hand-held metal detectors are also used in schools.  

• Emergency alert system. All district employees and contracted employees have access to CENTEGIX, an emergency alert system. This system gives employees the ability to call school lockdowns or alert law enforcement by pressing a button on wearable badges.  

• K9 officers. School police recently expanded its K9 unit with the addition of Penny, a dog trained to detect illegal narcotics including fentanyl. Penny joins K9 Maverick, a canine trained to detect firearms.  

• Regular emergency drills and training. Florida law requires students and staff to perform regular emergency drills throughout the school year, often with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. This includes lockdown drills and active shooter protocol.  

Game day protocols 

For major athletic events, Duval County School Police leadership establishes a Tactical Action Plan. School police leadership works closely with school administration and other law enforcement agencies in intelligence gathering, preparation, and implementation of security plans. 

We also enforce the following protocols:

• No loitering. All fans are required to remain in the stands while watching games. We also have a strict no-re-entry policy.

• Park and head to the venue. Gathering or socializing in the parking lot or sitting in cars before, during, or after the game is prohibited.

• Prohibited items.  Firearms, weapons, outside food and drinks, backpacks, illegal drugs, and alcohol are prohibited at games.

• Student pickup.  If you plan on picking up your child at the end of a game, we ask that you plan ahead and know what time it ends. 

Involving the Community

Parents, guardians, and community members must also play an active role in keeping our schools safe. To do your part, families need to remember:

• Follow the “See Something, Say Something” protocol. Be proactive and report potential threats or issues. This can be done through school staff, school police, local law enforcement, or via the FortifyFL reporting site or app.   

• Pay attention to your child's social media. Observe what they're posting and who they're in communication with.

• Monitor who your child is spending time with. This includes in-person and via computer, phone, or messaging.

• Never hesitate to ask your child the tough questions. This can help you "stay ahead" of an issue before it becomes a major problem.