Act 44 of 2025
A new Pennsylvania law has changed how school districts, including Gettysburg Area School District (GASD), communicate about certain weapon-related incidents. Here's how GASD has been communicating under the new law.
What is Act 44?
Act 44 of 2025 requires school districts to notify parents/guardians and staff within 24 hours of a weapon-related incident that occurs on school property, district transportation, or at school-sponsored activities.
This requirement went into effect January 6, 2026.
Who will be notified?
When a weapon-related incident occurs at a school building, GASD will notify the parents/guardians of students assigned to that building, in addition to employees in that building.
When an incident occurs at a school-sponsored event or on district transportation, the district will notify the appropriate families and staff. A district-wide notification may be sent when appropriate.
Does a notification mean there's an active threat?
No. Act 44 requires notifications about certain weapon-related incidents even when there is no ongoing threat to students or staff. When appropriate, GASD will clearly communicate whether the district and law enforcement have determined that an active threat exists.
What is considered a weapon-related incident?
Pennsylvania law and GASD Board Policy 218.1 define a weapon broadly. The definition includes items such as knives, cutting instruments and tools, nunchaku, firearms, and other objects capable of causing serious bodily injury.
Some incidents may involve an item that was not intended to cause harm but still meets the legal definition of a weapon. For example, a student may unknowingly bring a pocket knife to school after a weekend activity. Even when there is no threat, the incident may still require notification under Act 44.
What information will the district share?
Notifications will generally include the date and location of the incident, a general description of what occurred and whether an active threat has been identified. Because of state and federal privacy laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the district cannot share names, identifying information or specific details about individuals involved.
Why might a notification be brief?
GASD understand that families and staff may want additional information following an incident. However, privacy laws limit what the district can legally share. Our goal is to provide timely and accurate information while protecting student and staff privacy.
What happens after a weapon-related incident?
GASD will continue to follow established safety procedures. Depending on the circumstances, this may include notifying local law enforcement, investigating and documenting the incident, conducting a threat assessment, providing support to students and staff, and taking appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with Board policy and the Student Code of Conduct.
How will I receive a notification?
Act 44 notifications will be sent through the district's Messages XR communication system. Families and staff are encouraged to ensure their contact information is current in Skyward. Families who need to update their information should contact their child's building secretary for assistance.
Who can I contact with additional questions?
Please contact the district office at 717-334-6254 or email communications@gasd-pa.org. GASD remains committed to maintaining safe schools, responding promptly to concerns, and providing families with timely, accurate, and responsible communication.