DEMING – Deming Public Schools has strengthened security at its secondary campuses with the addition of five new OpenGate weapons detection systems, providing another layer of protection for students, staff and visitors.
Deming Public Schools Safety Director Benny Jasso told Deming News the district purchased the portable OpenGate detection units through a State of New Mexico school safety grant. The district invested approximately $150,000 in the five units, allowing the equipment to be acquired without impacting local operating funds.
The systems are now in use at the district’s secondary campuses, including Deming Intermediate School, Red Mountain Middle School and Deming High School. Because the units are portable, they can also be moved to other district locations and special events as needed.
Jasso said the detectors were first used during the 2025-2026 Deming High School graduation ceremony. Since then, the systems have become part of the district’s regular safety procedures.
He acknowledged that during graduation, some individuals chose not to attend because of the added security measures. However, Jasso said students have adapted well to the new procedures.
“The students have not had any issues with the additional security measures,” Jasso said.
Manufactured by CEIA, the OpenGate weapons detection system is designed to identify firearms and other significant metallic weapons while allowing people to move through screening quickly with backpacks, purses and many everyday personal items. The technology is designed to minimize unnecessary alarms caused by common items such as keys, cell phones and water bottles, helping maintain a steady flow of students and visitors while enhancing security.
Because the units are lightweight and portable, district personnel can deploy them at school entrances, athletic events, assemblies, graduation ceremonies and other large gatherings throughout the school year.
Jasso said the new equipment represents another important step in Deming Public Schools’ comprehensive approach to campus safety. Combined with controlled campus access, trained personnel and established emergency procedures, the OpenGate systems help provide a secure environment while allowing students and staff to focus on learning.
Readers can also listen to an interview with Deming Public Schools Safety Director Benny Jasso on DemingNews.com, where he discusses the new OpenGate weapons detection systems, how they are being used throughout the district and the positive response from students to the enhanced security measures.
John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications News – John@bravomic.com
