Learn About Safety Enhancements and Guidelines at TCSS Stadiums

TCSS Students and Families,

We are excited that football season has returned! This year, we are introducing some enhancements and guidelines to maintain a safe environment at our home football games. Games are a great way to bring our community together. It is important that we are proactive in having the best safety practices in place, as we welcome both our community and our visiting teams. These same safety guidelines are in place at all stadiums within the Tuscaloosa County School System.

As you know, the Tuscaloosa County School System has implemented the OpenGate Weapons Detection system in all middle and high schools this school year. OpenGate will also be in use at football games this season. If you have attended a college football game or a concert recently, you are already familiar with OpenGate. It is the same system in use at those venues. Integrity Event Security Services will be managing the weapons detection system at each entry point, as well as running security and assisting with crowd control during the game. 

Once you leave the game, there is no re-entry into the game. You must purchase a new ticket if you want to come back into the game. Once ticket sales for the event end, there will be no more entries into the event. At that time, gates become an exit-only station. 

Children ages 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

A field pass is required to go onto the field at any time, including after the game. Parents and families of student athletes, we know you want to see your student after the game. You will be notified of where you can meet up with your student, following the game. 

 Please note the items that are prohibited from our sporting events:

• Firearms and weapons (including pocket knives)
• Coolers
• Outside food and drink
• Artificial noise makers
• Alcohol and tobacco products
• Pets (Service animals are allowed.)
• Umbrellas
• Banners, flags, and signage
• Any items deemed inappropriate, hazardous, or unsafe by school personnel

We appreciate your support as we work to keep a safe environment for everyone at our sporting events. The safety of our students and school communities is our highest priority. Please discuss this information with your student and help them understand the importance of safety guidelines for large gatherings like sporting events.  We look forward to seeing you under the Friday night lights!

Office of the Superintendent

Tuscaloosa County School System