Understanding the changes from PA Act 44 and Act 47
Heads up, Bensalem families. Dr. Lee and the district administration just released an update about two new Pennsylvania state laws that change how schools handle safety notifications and attendance tracking. We wanted to break this down simply so you aren’t caught off guard if you see a serious-looking email pop up in your inbox or if you get a notice about attendance.
First, regarding safety, the district is now legally required to loop parents in much faster than before. Starting now, if a “weapon” is found on school property, at an event, or on a bus, the district has to email families within 24 hours. In the past, they had to report this to the state, but they didn’t always have to notify every parent directly.
Here is the important part: Don’t panic if you receive these notifications. The state’s legal definition of a “weapon” is very broad. This doesn’t necessarily mean there is an immediate threat; it could be something as minor as a student accidentally leaving a pocketknife in their backpack. The district will still assess every situation carefully, but the law says they have to tell you about it.
The Details
Here is the rundown of the specific changes:
- 24-Hour Rule: Parents and staff will get an email within 24 hours of any weapon discovery.
- Privacy Matters: These emails will be general. To protect student privacy, no names or identifying info will be shared.
- Stricter Attendance: Under the new Act 47, the “truancy” threshold has dropped. It used to be 10 days of unexcused absences; now, it is 6 days.
- Cyber Charter Changes: If a student is identified as truant under these new guidelines, they cannot simply transfer to a Cyber Charter School without a court order.
Why It Matters
These laws are designed to keep parents better informed and students in the classroom, but it means you might see more communication from the school than you are used to—especially regarding safety incidents that might seem minor.
🍎 The Bottom Line
- Check the Backpacks: Remind your students to double-check their bags. Even an accidental prohibited item can lead to discipline and a district-wide email.
- Watch the Calendar: Keep an eye on those unexcused absences. The state is getting stricter, and the limit is now just 6 days.
- Stay Calm: If you get a safety notification, remember that the school is just following the new law, and student safety remains the priority.
The school district reminded us that even “unintentional” slip-ups can result in real disciplinary consequences. To save everyone the stress (and the paperwork), we put together this quick “Sunday Night Sweep” list.
The Checklist: What to Look For
Make this a routine before the school week starts!
- ☐ The “Camping” Leftovers: Did your child use their backpack for a scout trip, hiking, or fishing over the weekend? Check for pocketknives, multi-tools, or fire starters.
- ☐ The “Junk Drawer” Hazard: Kids love collecting cool gadgets. Check for laser pointers, novelty keychains that look like weapons, or mini-screwdrivers.
- ☐ The Sports Bag: If they play sports, check for equipment repair tools (like box cutters for tape) or bats/sticks that should be in the locker room, not the classroom.
- ☐ The Art Stash: Double-check pencil cases for non-school scissors, X-Acto knives, or sharp compasses that aren’t on the supply list.
- ☐ The Forgotten Jacket Pocket: If they wear the same coat to school that they wear for outdoor activities, check the pockets for hunting or fishing gear.
The state’s definition of a “weapon” is incredibly broad. Catching these items before the bus arrives keeps your student safe from suspension and keeps the school environment calm.
Take two minutes on Sunday night to unzip the zippers and pat down the pockets. It’s the easiest way to ensure the only surprise in the backpack is a permission slip you forgot to sign!
