Good afternoon,
Act 44 of 2025 added section 1303.2-A to the Pennsylvania School Code and established parent and employee notification requirements for school districts and other school entities. This added section to the PA School Code requires notification to parents and employees of the school entity when a weapon of any type is found in a student's possession while on school property, a shared campus, a location where a school-sponsored activity is conducted, or on a school bus.
Concerning the new requirements of Act 44, the purpose of this notification is to make you aware of an incident at the West Greene Middle-Senior High School this afternoon. West Greene School District Policy #218.1 indicates that a weapon "...shall include but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle, replica of a weapon, and any other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury." A student at the high school had possession of a pen knife that fits this definition. West Greene personnel responded immediately, and the pen knife, which was being used as a tool, was confiscated. There was absolutely no immediate threat to cause physical harm to students or staff. Even if the student did not intend to use the pen knife as a weapon, its presence on school grounds violates this policy. The West Greene School District follows all organizational policies, the PA School Code, and local and state laws regarding incidents of this nature, including contacting law enforcement if necessary.
Living in a rural community where many of our students are active in agriculture and the trades, we recognize that a pen knife or pocket knife is often viewed as a practical tool rather than a weapon. However, under Act 44 and District Policy, these items cannot be permitted on campus. We ask that parents sit down with their children to discuss the importance of checking pockets and bags before leaving for school or arriving from a job site. If a student realizes they have accidentally brought such an item to school, self-reporting to the office immediately is the best course of action. Proactive communication helps us maintain a safe environment without the need for the more severe disciplinary measures required when a weapon is discovered by the staff.
The safety and well-being of our District students and staff are our number one priority. Should you have any questions regarding the new requirements under Act 44, please contact my office at your earliest convenience.
Respectfully,
Eric M. Gaydos
Superintendent of Schools