East Baton Rouge Schools Propose New Security Device

Superintendent LaMont Cole says the RhinoWare Lockdown System could cost $3.5 million to install districtwide.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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East Baton Rouge Public Schools are considering adding a new security measure called the RhinoWare Lockdown System to their campuses. Superintendent LaMont Cole says the devices would be installed on every classroom door and some external doors to prevent intruders from entering the schools. The proposed $3.5 million districtwide installation would be funded through grants and donations.

Why it matters

The move comes after a series of security incidents at East Baton Rouge schools, with students expressing concerns about their safety. While some experts argue prevention and intervention are key, the district wants to be prepared in the event of an active shooter situation.

The details

The RhinoWare Lockdown System would be installed on every classroom door and some external doors to prevent intruders from entering the schools. Superintendent Cole says the devices would cost about $3.5 million to install districtwide. Funding for the first two high schools, Istrouma High and Belaire High, would come from grants and donations from the Baton Rouge Area Foundation.

  • In March 2025, East Baton Rouge Parish Schools began deploying metal detectors in high schools across the district.
  • The school board is set to vote on the new security measure next week.

The players

LaMont Cole

Superintendent of East Baton Rouge Public Schools.

Michael Matranga

Former United States Secret Service Agent and former director of security for the Texas City Independent School District.

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What they’re saying

“Be on every classroom door and then some of the external doors as well, so they couldn't even get in the school if they were trying to.”

— LaMont Cole, Superintendent (wbrz.com)

“The United States Secret Service for decades now has said that early warning signs and prevention and intervention is the key to getting those kids or even staff members off that pathway to violence. There is no lock that is going to prevent the bad intentions of someone who wants to commit harm, that's the truth.”

— Michael Matranga, Former United States Secret Service Agent and former director of security for the Texas City Independent School District (wbrz.com)

What’s next

If the new security measure receives final approval from the school board next week, Superintendent Cole says students can start seeing the RhinoWare Lockdown System being installed by the end of this month or early next month.

The takeaway

This proposed security measure highlights the ongoing challenges schools face in balancing safety concerns with effective prevention strategies. While the RhinoWare system aims to physically secure campuses, experts argue that early intervention and addressing root causes are crucial to truly enhancing school safety.