FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) -- Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is kicking off the new school year with safety as its top priority and a new layer of security.

The school district announced that it will begin implementing its weapon detection screening program at school board regular business meetings.

The installation of the OpenGate weapons detection system coincides with the larger effort of many northern Virginia school divisions to create safe spaces for students, faculty and staff.

Mirroring the school's policy, guns, knives, explosive devices, ammunition, blades, brass knuckles and more will be prohibited at all school board meetings. Officials noted that all attendees are encouraged to arrive early to pass through the scanners.

In a statement to DC News Now, Fairfax C

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