More than 20 police cars arrived at Skyline on Friday, Sept. 26, responding to an 8 a.m. call to authorities that a firearm had been seen on campus. That call had sent the school into a “secure school” status, leaving staff and students confused.
Although police found no weapon on campus after an extensive search, the incident led to teachers and students calling for better communication when an emergency or perceived emergency is occurring.
During the “secure school” protocol, teachers were instructed to keep students insider classrooms while officers investigated the incident. Students and parents who arrived during the “secure school” protocol were unable to enter campus.
Updates were limited, and much of the information came from unofficial sources, social media and rumors.
Students were kept in their first period classes until the end of second period, with no updates over the PA system except for being told to continue to observe the secure school rules.
“A lot of what we knew came from students using the Citizens app or hearing from parents,” said Green Energy Pathway english teacher, Davis Lopez.
“When we get it from sources that aren’t the school, there’s more distrust and uncertainty,” he added. “That lets people’s minds wander and think of the worst scenarios.”
Principal Rebecca Huang confirmed that the police found no active threat and the campus was cleared. However, she acknowledged that the event was “stressful” and said counselors offered check-ins afterwards.
“We can always improve how we communicate,” Huang said. “Finding accurate information quickly and avoiding rumors, is key.”
The following week, the Restorative Justice team held a healing circle in the library for students and staff who wanted support and a space to reflect on what had happened on Sept. 26.
Those who attended shared that the lack of communication during the incident made them feel uncertain and anxious, Other teachers also held smaller circles in their classrooms to help students process what happened to regain a sense of safety.
Sofia Sampino, a Community Health & Education Pathway sophomore, explained that she would like cleared communication between staff and teachers if this type of incident happens again. She said if that happened, then teachers could give updated to students and families. “It would help everyone feel safer and more reassured,” she said.
