Alternative education directors report recent bomb‑threat response, bus scare and staffing turnover
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Summary
District representatives described a recent false bomb threat that triggered multiagency response and evacuation, a separate bus incident where a student reported hearing a gun that was not found, and increased staffing turnover and hiring of new administrators at alternative schools.
District representatives briefed the council on recent safety incidents and staffing trends affecting alternative education programs.
Brian Douglas, student support supervisor, described a false bomb threat called in the previous day: "We had a kid calling a bomb threat yesterday. And so Homeland Security was here, the fire trucks, police force… It turned out to be a false alarm, and we're thankful for that." He said the high school was evacuated to the football stadium parking lot, emergency responders searched the facility and courts are involved with the young person who made the threat.
Glenn described a separate incident where a student on a bus reported hearing a gun; the driver alerted EMS, response teams searched every student and found nothing. Glenn also reported his program — typically grades 6–12 — has been receiving elementary students this year, which changes classroom dynamics and requires adjustments to supports.
Several members noted vaping (THC) remains a persistent concern and that turnover among staff at alternative learning centers has increased over the past 12 months, with multiple districts planning to send staff to professional conferences to seek best practices and supports.
Next steps: Districts will continue sharing safety protocols and promising practices; the council discussed including community partners and examples of on‑site wraparound services in the Alt Ed survey so other districts can replicate effective responses and supports.