Two Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) students have been arrested and are facing criminal charges after making threats against their schools. In addition to legal consequences, both students will face the maximum disciplinary actions outlined by GCPS.

     In one incident, a student from Archer High School falsely claimed there was an active shooter on campus. The student later admitted the claim was made for attention. In a separate case, a Meadowcreek High School student posted several threats on social media in an attempt to avoid going to school. Although neither threat was deemed credible, both incidents caused unnecessary fear and disruption within the school community.

     GCPS school police worked with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to identify the authors of the threat and make the arrests. Making threats against schools is a serious offense and will not be tolerated. GCPS Chief of Schools Dr. Al Taylor says the district has zero tolerance for threatening and disruptive behavior in schools. “Safety is our top priority, and any threats against our schools—whether false or online—are taken very seriously. Students must understand that these actions have real consequences up to and including criminal charges. These threats not only disrupt teaching and learning but also incite fear and panic in our schools and community. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure that our schools remain safe environments for everyone. However, we urge parents to talk to their children about their behavior and monitor their social media activity.”

     GCPS remains committed to the safety and well-being of its students and staff and will take all necessary actions to maintain a secure learning environment. In addition to the increased police presence around our schools, and the continued partnership with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, the following are the security measures already in place to protect GCPS students and staff.

• 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.