Pennsylvania Law Update: Act 44 of 2025
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community Members:
The safety of our students and staff is always our highest priority. We are writing to inform you of a new Pennsylvania state law that mandates public, private, cyber, charter, and nonpublic schools must respond to and communicate about weapon-related incidents.
In November 2025, the Pennsylvania Legislature amended the Pennsylvania Public School Code of 1949 through the enactment of Act 44 of 2025, titled “Parental and Employee Notification of Weapon Incidents.” This law adds Section 1303.2-A to the School Code and establishes new statewide reporting and notification requirements for school districts. These requirements are now in effect.
Definition of a Weapon
Under School Code § 1317.2(g), a “weapon” includes specific items such as knives, cutting instruments or tools, nunchaku, firearms, shotguns, and rifles. The definition also contains a broad catchall provision for “any other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.”
What Act 44 Requires
Under Act 44, when a school entity becomes aware of a weapon incident occurring on school property, at a school-sponsored activity, or on a school vehicle, the school entity is required to:
Notify the parents or guardians of students enrolled in the affected school
Notify school employees assigned to the affected school
Provide this notification as soon as practicable, but no later than twenty-four (24) hours, as required by law.
All notifications must include general information about the incident while fully protecting student confidentiality and privacy rights in accordance with state and federal law. No personally identifiable student information will be released.
What This Means for Families
It is important for families to understand that the definition of a weapon under the law may include what is sometimes referred to as “accidental” possession. For example, a student who inadvertently brings a pocketknife to school after a hunting or outdoor activity would still fall within the statutory definition of a weapon. Act 44 is unforgiving in this regard and mandates reporting of any item defined as a weapon under the School Code, regardless of intent.
This law is intended to ensure transparency and timely communication with families and staff while continuing to prioritize safety and confidentiality. Act 44 does not change the Dover Area School District’s existing safety procedures, disciplinary processes, or our long-standing commitment to working closely with law enforcement.
Please note that not all reported incidents involve an immediate threat. Each situation is carefully assessed by school administration in coordination with law enforcement and other appropriate authorities.
We ask for your assistance as parents and guardians in reminding students that possessing a weapon, even unintentionally, can result in disciplinary consequences at DASD. These consequences may include police involvement, suspension for up to one year, and placement in an alternative educational setting, as permitted by law.
Our Commitment
The Dover Area School District remains committed to maintaining a safe, supportive, hands-on learning environment and to keeping families informed in full compliance with the law. Your continued support and partnership are more important than ever as we work together to protect our students and schools. If you have questions about Act 44 or the DASD’s safety procedures, please contact us at 717-292-3671.
Sincerely,
The Dover Area School District
