Amphitheater Public Schools

School Safety Q&A

What safety measures are in place at our schools?

The District follows safety recommendations from local, state and national law enforcement agencies. We cannot share all of our safety measures publicly because we do not want all safety information available to someone who might be a threat.

Examples of some of the safety measures we have in place:

• Safety manuals with protocols for all types of emergencies.
• Regular safety drills, including for lockdowns.
• Single point of entry for every school, including a camera at the entry.
• Exterior fencing. The FBI and Secret Service emphasize the importance of effective perimeter fencing.
• Locks on interior and exterior doors.
• Strong relationships with the Tucson Police Department, Oro Valley Police Department, and Pima County Sheriff’s Department.
• The District plans to explore additional safety technology available today using bond funding if voters approve the bond election in November.

How does the District handle threats?

When a potential threat arises, we follow a process, outlined below. Amphitheater Public Schools takes every threat seriously and works with law enforcement to conduct a thorough and complete investigating every time. Please note that throughout the process, we evaluate communication needs (see next question for more information about communication. The threat process includes:

• Taking immediate action to ensure student safety if necessary. This could mean going into “secure mode” (where learning continues but students remain in classrooms), calling a lockdown or considering evacuation, in the case of a bomb threat or gas leak, for example.
• Notifying law enforcement involvement: We work hand-in-hand with them to investigate the threat.
• Working with law enforcement to gather information from students and other sources.
  • Based on the findings and in collaboration with law enforcement, the credibility of the threat is assessed.
• Taking appropriate disciplinary action based on Amphitheater’s Code of Conduct and state laws.

How are parents notified of a threat?

If a threat disrupts school or causes concern, parents are notified via ParentSquare text, email, and notifications. In cases where the threat is quickly determined to be non-credible, we may send a message home after school to avoid unnecessary alarm. If an investigation is ongoing, we may delay communication to avoid hindering it, always in consultation with law enforcement. The most important thing to remember is that the safety of students is our top priority.

What role can the community play in school safety?

Please avoid sharing rumors on social media. This is very important. Instead, report concerns directly to the school or police. The more a rumor or threat is shared, the harder it is for law enforcement to find the source and determine whether a threat is real.

We also urge students and parents who may be hesitant to contact law enforcement or the school to use the Anonymous Tip Line available on every school website and on this page.

We encourage all parents to get involved—join your school’s site council, PTO, or the Community Advisory Council.

Please also explain to your children the serious consequences of making or spreading threats, even as a joke. Parents should feel free to communicate any concerns with their principals. The majority of threatening or destructive behavior happens outside of school, and we need the entire community’s eyes and ears to help.

How does the District handle discipline?

Disciplinary action varies based on the situation and state law. Consequences are serious and can include suspension or expulsion for students involved in making threats. We always work within state guidelines when determining appropriate disciplinary actions.

It is important to note that federal privacy laws prohibit school districts from sharing information specific to a student.

Do all schools have a law enforcement officer on campus?

While not every school has a dedicated officer, many of our schools are fortunate to have officers on campus. We maintain excellent relationships with local law enforcement agencies and have their support for every school.

What do we tell students about safety and drills?

Opinions vary on what students should know and how drills are conducted. We trust our staff to tailor information to each grade level appropriately. If you’re concerned about how your child is processing safety information, please reach out to your school.

What mental health resources are available to students?

Our schools have staff trained to help children in a multitude of ways. We have preventative programs like Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and social-emotional learning initiatives. We also have a threat-assessment process and anti-bullying programs, along with peer mentoring. However, our capacity is limited; we are not a mental health agency. If your child needs more support, we can connect you with additional resources.

How do you keep safety practices up-to-date?

School safety is a continuous effort. We review processes regularly, stay informed of trends, and learn from past experiences. Additionally, the District consulted with a school safety expert to walk each of our campuses to evaluate security and make recommendations for improvement. Those recommendations have been implemented on all campuses.

We also participate in a county-wide school safety consortium ensures that we are always improving.

Who’s in charge of school safety in the Amphitheater District?

We have a team that includes our Associate Superintendent of Elementary Education, Associate Superintendent of Secondary Education, Executive Manager of Operations, our Equity and Safety Compliance Officer and the Superintendent.

What if I have more questions?

If you have further questions about school safety, please email us at answers@amphi.com.