Dear GCPS Families and Staff,

In the wake of yesterday's tragic event in Barrow County, we have received numerous emails and calls from concerned parents worried about threats against our schools circulating on social media. They are seeking reassurance about the safety of their children. Our School Resource Officers (SROs), along with state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies, have been working diligently to investigate each and every threat that has been reported since yesterday. Please know that Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) is unwavering in its commitment to the safety and well-being of all our students and staff.

As a parent, I understand your concerns and fears. I want to take this opportunity to outline the steps we are taking in response to yesterday’s incident and remind you of the safety measures we already have in place across our district.

Our SROs will continue to work closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of our students and staff. This ongoing collaboration allows us to thoroughly investigate any threats against our school community. In addition, we have increased the police presence in and around our schools to provide further security.

Although yesterday's incident occurred in a neighboring district, its impact is felt in our schools. Our school counselors are available to help students with difficult issues such as this, and we also have counseling services available for our teachers and staff.

Please be assured that we have also offered support to our friends and colleagues in Barrow County.

In addition to these immediate steps that we have taken, I would like to highlight some of the ongoing security measures we have in place:

• School Resource Officers: GCPS currently employs 115 SROs, with two stationed at each high school, one at each middle school, and several at elementary schools. We also work with other law enforcement agencies to enhance security coverage at all schools.
• Centegix Crisis Alert System: All GCPS schools are equipped with the Centegix Crisis Alert system, which allows staff to discreetly call for help and provides first responders with precise location details, down to the room and floor.
• Cameras: We have installed more than 11,000 security cameras across all campuses, which can be accessed remotely by law enforcement when necessary.
• Security Vestibules and Raptor System: Each school is equipped with a security vestibule, giving administrators control over who enters the building. The Raptor system screens all adult visitors against the National Sex Offender Registry to enhance student safety.
• Safety Drills: Every school conducts regular safety drills, including lockdowns and fire drills, to prepare students and staff for emergency situations.
• Mental Health Support and Intervention: Our school counselors and psychologists are trained to identify students at risk of violent behavior and to provide appropriate interventions before issues escalate.
• GCPS Tips: Now in its third year, GCPS Tips has been a resounding success. This mobile app and the desktop version allow students, staff, families, and community members to anonymously report safety, security, or mental health concerns.

GCPS remains dedicated to keeping our schools safe and secure, and we will continue to prioritize the well-being of each and every student and staff member in our care.

In partnership and service,
Dr. Calvin J. Watts 
Superintendent

Additional resources for families:

• Developmental Responses to Grief from The Dougy Center: The National Center for Grieving Children & Families
• Talking to Children about Violence: Tips for Families and Educators from the National Association of School Psychologists