GCPS Parent Alert: Talk to Your Child About What NOT to Bring or Do at School

GCPS Parent Alert

Talk to Your Child About What NOT to Bring or Do at School

School should always be a safe place for learning, friendships, and growth. As parents and guardians, you play a critical role in making sure your child understands what is appropriate—and what is not—when it comes to school behavior and safety.

Items and Behaviors That Are NEVER Allowed at School

• Weapons of Any Kind – Guns, knives, toy look-alike weapons, or anything that could cause harm.

• Drugs, Alcohol, or Vaping Products – Illegal substances, prescription drugs without proper documentation, and tobacco/vape products are strictly prohibited.

• Fighting or Aggressive Behavior – Physical or verbal fights, bullying, threats, or intimidation.

• Terroristic Threats – Making verbal, written, or electronic threats to harm others or disrupt school safety is taken very seriously.

• Gwinnett County Public Schools maintains a zero-tolerance policy for weapons, drugs, alcohol, fighting, bullying, threats, intimidation, and terroristic threats, all of which carry serious disciplinary consequences and may result in a disciplinary tribunal and/or referral to law enforcement.

How to Talk to Your Child

1. Be Clear & Direct – Use simple, age-appropriate language. For example: "If you ever see or hear about someone bringing a weapon, you must tell an adult immediately."

2. Explain the “Why” – Kids respond better when they understand why rules exist. Connect safety rules to keeping themselves and others safe.

3. Practice Scenarios – Ask:

   • “What would you do if a friend asked you to hold something dangerous or illegal?”

   • “What should you do to avoid a situation that might lead to a fight?”

   • “What can you do to make sure you never find yourself making a threat — even as a joke — that could be taken seriously?”

4. Partner with Your Child – Periodically check backpacks, coats, and personal items with your child. Frame it as a way to build trust and responsibility, not punishment. Say, “Let’s look through your bag together to make sure you have everything you need for a safe and successful day.”

5. Keep the Door Open – Reassure your child that they can always come to you or another trusted adult without fear of “getting in trouble” for speaking up.

Positive Reinforcement

Remind your child that making safe and respectful choices shows leadership and maturity. Praise them when they demonstrate responsibility.

Remember

• A single mistake with weapons, drugs, threats, or violence can change a child’s future.

• Gwinnett County Public Schools enforces these rules to protect every student’s safety and learning environment.

• The best prevention is open, ongoing conversations at home.

Parents + Schools = Safe Students

Start the conversation today.