If anyone but a law enforcement official carries a gun into an Ann Arbor school, administrators will ask the person to leave and call the police. Under a new policy, a weapon such as a gun in a school constitutes an emergency.
The Ann Arbor Public Schools Board of Education on Wednesday, April 15, unanimously voted to ban dangerous weapons, including guns, from school buildings and property. The vote approved three policies that outline the superintendent’s ability to be able to close schools, cancel buses or student and staff events before, during and after school in the case of an emergency.
Law enforcement officials including retired judges are exempt. State law bans guns in schools, but concealed pistol license holders can openly carry guns in schools. Board President Deb Mexicotte said the district has a legal obligation and wide latitude from the state to ensure student safety and maintain a disruption-free environment. State guidelines for security training from the state also make it clear that a weapon in schools is an emergency, she said.