The Board of Education prohibits classified staff members from possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon, including a concealed weapon, in a school safety zone and any setting that is under the control and supervision of the Board for the purpose of school activities approved and authorized by the Board including, but not limited to, property leased, owned, or contracted for by the Board, a school-sponsored event, or in a ‘Board-owned vehicle without the permission of the Superintendent.

The term "weapon" means any object which, in the manner in which it is used, is intended to be used, or is represented, is capable of inflicting serious bodily harm or property damage, as well as endangering the health and safety of persons. Weapons include, but are not limited to, firearms, guns of any type, including air and gas-powered guns (whether loaded or unloaded), knives, razors, clubs, electric weapons, metallic knuckles, martial arts weapons, ammunition, and explosives.

The Superintendent shall refer a staff member who violates this policy to law enforcement officials, regardless of whether such staff member possesses a valid concealed weapon license. The staff member will also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination, as permitted by applicable Board policy and the terms of existing collective bargaining agreements.

Exceptions to this policy include weapons under the control of law enforcement personnel; and/or starter pistols used in appropriate sporting events.

Staff members shall report any information concerning weapons and/or threats of violence by students, staff members, or visitors to the principal. Failure to report such information may subject the staff member to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

The Board directs the Superintendent to post notices prohibiting the carrying and possession of concealed weapons in a school safety zone, including schools and school buildings, on school premises and at school activities. The notices shall contain a statement substantially in the following form:

The Superintendent shall conspicuously post such notices at each entrance of a school and/or school building and in areas inside the building where visitors are required to report. Notices shall also be posted at each entrance leading into a school activity (particularly those activities held outside of the school building) and parcel of land.

Revised 5/9/05