The information below was shared with all MASD families via email on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Dear Mechanicsburg Area School District Families,
The safety of our students and staff always stands as a top priority for our district. I am writing today to share information about a new Pennsylvania law concerning school safety and how the requirements will impact future communications you receive. I feel it is important for you to have awareness of the change before you begin getting messages you might not be used to receiving.
What is the law?
The new law defines to whom schools must provide notification following an incident involving the possession of a weapon on a school’s property. More specifically, the law requires communication to families and employees within 24 hours after an incident occurs and violates one of several laws/policies.
How will this law change the way MASD responds to incidents?
This law will not change the prioritization MASD has always put on a prompt response to incidents, coordination with law enforcement, and thoughtful communication. The only change is that we will now occasionally notify you of incidents that technically violate the weapons policy, but do not involve any intentional or ongoing safety concern. In these instances, communication is intended to continue providing transparency and clarity—not cause concern.
If I receive the notification, does that mean my child was involved somehow?
No. As always, if we are aware of your child’s direct involvement, you will hear individually from the school administration. A general communication will go out to everyone in the school to notify families and employees that a weapons policy violation occurred.
Overall, these types of incidents are among the most serious we review. Each potential situation receives careful evaluation, with close attention to student safety, context, and privacy. This new law gives us an additional opportunity to partner with families to raise awareness and bring greater attention to how we can help our students avoid unintentional policy violations.
On that note, if your child ever finds that they have possession of something that they shouldn’t have brought to school, the best thing they can do is take it to a teacher or the office immediately. Please take a moment to make them aware of this recommendation and remind them that weapons of any kind, including toys and look-alike items, are neither appropriate for nor permitted on school grounds and on the school bus/van.
We value the trust families place in our schools and appreciate your continued partnership as we work together to maintain safe, supportive learning environments for all students.
With Wildcat Pride,
Andrew B. Bitz
Superintendent