Communications

During an investigation conducted by the district, or in collaboration with law enforcement, we are often limited concerning what information we may release.

Why

The District must be certain it does not obstruct or interfere with an investigation in order to preserve an individual's right to due process. Investigations take time for good reason — to ensure accurate information is gathered. Releasing information prematurely could have serious impacts on those involved. Further, sharing unauthorized information by District or school personnel could lead to criminal charges. 

Transparency

We understand a lack of information can be frustrating for families, staff and students. Our priority is to take immediate action to protect students, staff and our community and to communicate with those directly involved in the incident. We will provide as much information as we can without compromising the investigation or the involved persons’ rights to privacy and due process. When the investigation concludes, we provide releasable information to those involved and may — depending on the situation — share some of the details with staff, students, families and the community.

The District’s top priority is the safety and well-being of our students and staff. We take any and all reports of potential threats seriously, and we work closely with law enforcement to determine each report’s credibility as quickly as possible. During this process, we are limited regarding what we can share with the public.

Why

The District must be certain it does not obstruct or interfere with an investigation in order to preserve an individual's rights to due process. Investigations take time for good reason — to ensure accurate information is gathered. Releasing information prematurely could have serious impacts on those involved. Further, sharing unauthorized information by District or school personnel could lead to criminal charges. 

In these cases, it is also important the District not further the spread of non-credible information that may be shared through social media or other channels. Specifics of the threat are not shared because amplifying rumors can be counter-productive and incite unwarranted concerns.

Transparency

When we learn of a threat, we work as quickly as possible with law enforcement to determine the credibility of the threat and take actions to protect our students and staff.

In instances of a non-credible threat, the District and law enforcement work together to inform the community and ensure activities continue as normal. 

In the instance of a credible threat — one in which the suspect has the intent, means and opportunity to carry out a threat  — we partner with law enforcement to share as much information as we can with our students, staff and families, including what (if any) actions should be immediately taken.

The District is limited by federal law concerning sharing the identities of students involved in an incident and the consequences they may face. Therefore, all statements from the District will only refer to the student(s) in general and not comment on the disciplinary action taken.

Why 

A student’s identity and disciplinary information is protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Under this law, disciplinary records are deemed “education records” and are subject to privacy protections, generally requiring parental or eligible student consent for release.

An important part of learning at DCE is helping students understand that people make mistakes and that they can learn from those mistakes. The District uses restorative practices to help students take accountability for their actions and to improve. This process can be made more difficult if information about the student is made public.

If a juvenile faces criminal charges, law enforcement may share information publicly. However, information about juveniles is sealed as a matter of practice. 

Transparency

As always, staff and student safety is our top priority, and we are committed to taking actions that support and protect all students while holding them accountable for their actions.

Staff may leave the District — temporarily or permanently — for a variety of reasons. The District does not share information about these situations.

Why

While we understand there may be interest in knowing more, we respect the privacy of staff. Further, several laws protect their privacy including the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and the Family Medical Leave Act.
In instances that warrant an investigation, the District must be certain it does not obstruct or interfere in order to preserve an individual's right to due process. 

Transparency

The District is committed to supporting staff during absences or transitions and, in cases where there is an investigation, protecting their right to due process. While we do not share information concerning employee absences, we do communicate with students and families as needed concerning any adjustments made to day-to-day learning due to staff absences.