(05/19/2023) We believe that all students learn better when every student is in a safe and supportive learning environment. Anoka-Hennepin Schools first priority is the safety of its students and staff, and everyone plays a role in keeping schools safe. Community partnerships are one tool that the district utilizes to ensure safe and welcoming schools. 

The school district works to clearly communicate potential safety issues with families as soon as possible. The school district partners with local law enforcement agencies in the event of emergencies, and also works regularly to establish positive and productive relationships between school resource officers, school and district staff, students and their families; and to create a sense of familiarity within school communities.

A school emergency can take a number of forms including an environmental event such as a chemical spill or gas leak; a weather emergency such as a tornado warning; or an intruder in or near the school. The nature of a school emergency dictates what emergency response protocol school officials will put in place to ensure the safety and well being of students and staff. 

Preparation is the key to effective response in case of an emergency. Each school has a safety plan, referenced in at least 11 drills throughout the year to help staff and students respond quickly, calmly and safely to a number of situations.  

It is inevitable that in a school district of approximately 38,000 students and their families, some in our community will need additional support due to an emergency or trauma situation each year. The district stands ready to activate the Student Support Services Crisis Response team, which works in collaboration with municipalities and community partners if and when support is needed. 

Anoka-Hennepin Schools partners with local law enforcement agencies to provide 12 school resource officers across the district:

• Anoka Police Department

• Anoka County Sheriff’s Office

• Blaine Police Department

• Brooklyn Park Police Department

• Champlin Police Department

• Coon Rapids Police Department

What families and community members can do to support schools

• If you hear or see something suspicious or threatening in nature, say something. Anyone can report a safety tip. If it’s during school hours, contact school leadership immediately. Outside of school hours, call 911 to report safety tips to local law enforcement.

• Technology use plays a role in school. Be aware of how children are utilizing technology and how it may affect their emotions or social skills. Help your children choose social media content that is meaningful, educational and social. 

• Be aware of school discipline policies. The safety of students and staff is the district’s first priority. If and when something happens at school that causes fear or alarm, the district has to take action. Visit ahschools.us/policies for resources.

• Parent involvement is key. Ask your child questions about their school day, and seek ways to get involved.