School Safety Message

March 7, 2019

Garfield families:

We have had a strong and focused start to our second semester and continue to work with students to ensure that we have a positive school culture and a welcoming environment for all students.  

We also want to ensure that our schools remain safe, therefore we are updating you on an incident at Garfield today. Although no one was threatened or hurt, the situation raises concerns.  Today, a gun was found in one of our student’s backpacks after students posted a video online about the weapon being on campus. Because of the zero-tolerance policy around weapons, the Seattle Police Department (SPD) was called. Our investigation, in conjunction with SPD is ongoing, however the involved parents have been contacted.  Additionally, the students have been disciplined consistent with district procedures.

As you are aware, adolescent students have complex social dynamics. Ensuring that students know appropriate behavioral expectations and that all students are safe is our goal.  We occasionally hear from students that they feel unsafe in the community and therefore maintain carry weapons for protection.  Our staff continues to discuss personal safety with students as well as district rules and state laws.

Most importantly, we wanted to let families know about these conversations and ask families to help all our students understand the importance of keeping schools weapon-free as well as the importance of sharing critical safety information immediately with adults at school. We are providing a link to some additional information that might be helpful during these discussions.  http://www.seattle.gov/police/community-policing/youth-safety-tips

Please be assured that the safety and security of our students is a top priority at Garfield High School.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us, (206) 252-2270.