News: National PTA Adopts Amendment
"In a historic vote during National PTA’s Level Up PTA 2024 Virtual Convention, delegates voted to adopt an amendment to the association’s resolution on Safe Storage of Firearms that calls for the association to support legislation requiring adults to be accountable for storing their firearms safely."
Gun Safety Resources
At Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy, we recognize the vital role each member of our school community plays in ensuring safety and fostering a secure learning environment.
Our commitment to student safety includes proactive measures and resources designed to prevent and address potential risks, including those related to gun safety.
Discover the resources available to understand warning signs, support at-risk individuals, and promote gun safety to prevent any tragic incidents within our school community.
Students of Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy are encouraged to reach out to their school counselor or any member of our Student Support Team (SST) for assistance with emotional well-being challenges. Together, we prioritize safety and well-being for all.
Gun Violence Prevention and Gun Storage
Safe firearm storage can help prevent and minimize the risk of firearm-related deaths and injuries in schools, homes, and communities. According to the U.S. Department of Education, “Nearly 20 percent of childhood deaths are caused by firearms, and many deaths can be prevented through safe storage of firearms.”
The Department of Education provided the following tips:
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Safely Store Firearms: Store firearms—always unloaded—in a tamper proof locked cabinet, box, safe, firearm vault, or storage case that children or other unauthorized adults cannot access.
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Safely Store Ammunition: Store ammunition in a separate, tamper-proof locked cabinet, safe, firearm vault, or storage case that children or other unauthorized adults cannot access.
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Secure Firearms: Use trigger locks or cable locks to prevent a firearm from firing.
All Adults Can Help Keep Kids Safer. If there’s a gun or guns in your home or vehicles, it’s essential to store them so that they’re inaccessible to kids and any unauthorized people. The best secure storage solution for you is the one that you will use consistently. There are many types of storage devices that meet the needs of different gun owners. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that “hiding” a gun or placing it somewhere that seems out-of-reach will keep a kid from getting their hands on it. And keep in mind that the gold standard for secure gun storage is to keep all guns unloaded, locked up, and separate from ammunition. If you’re not a gun owner, you can Be SMART by asking friends, family and neighbors how they store their guns. While it may feel awkward asking the question at first, the more you do it, the easier it will become. Treat it like any other safety issue. For ideas about how to start the conversation, check out these tips on asking about secure gun storage. Note: This paragraph that preceded regarding secure firearm storage originates from Be Smart.
Weapons Screening Program Information. In March 2023, the ACPS School Board approved a pilot weapons screening program for secondary school locations within ACPS, not including K-8 schools (or elementary schools). An update was provided during the February 22, 2024 School Board meeting. The weapons screening technology is designed to detect potential threats like guns and explosives, allowing individuals to pass through without stopping unless a threat is detected, indicated by a red alert. If an alert occurs, individuals undergo a secondary screening by administrators and security teams. See additional details here. In April 2024, a survey was opened by ACPS to ask students, staff, families and community members about the implementation of the weapons abatement program at elementary and K-8 school locations. The results of this survey will help inform the formal staff recommendation to the School Board regarding the future of the weapons screening equipment program in ACPS.
Emergency Protocol in ACPS Schools
ACPS implemented Violent Intruder/Active Threat Training, utilizing the ALICE Training Institute program (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) as a guide. This approach aims to ensure both staff and students are prepared to respond effectively to the threat of violence within the school environment. Through age-appropriate lessons and drills, students learn strategies to participate in their own survival and lead others to safety, while accommodations are made for students with diverse needs.
Parents and guardians should note that the preferred ACPS response to a violent intruder/active threat emergency is Evacuation.
We also recommend familiarizing yourself with the various crisis management terminology ACPS uses in the face of potential threats.
"Secure the Building"
Involves locking down the premises and preventing entry or exit until the situation resolves, typically in response to external threats such as law enforcement activity nearby or reports of dangerous wildlife.
"Lockdown"
Is initiated when there's a potential danger inside or near the building, prompting staff and students to either evacuate or barricade in place.
"Evacuation"
Entails moving to a new location due to an incident, like a fire alarm or gas leak, while "Shelter" requires seeking safe refuge during external threats like tornadoes or earthquakes.
It’s important that students, family, and staff keep their personal information and contact information up to date in PowerSchool and utilize ParentSquare. Throughout these scenarios, ACPS communicates via text, ParentSquare app announcements, emails, and website updates. Reunification protocols ensure a controlled release of students back to their families when safe to do so, facilitated by coordination with emergency response agencies. In an emergency, it is best NOT to drive to the site where activity may be occurring for your safety and that of others.
Additional Information
If you would like to learn more about the LCTA PTA's Legislative Affairs Committee and get involved in making a difference in our community, please reach out to president@lctapta.org.