See Something Say Something

The number one way to prevent school violence is to report it.
Call 911 first, then notify your school.

The Tacoma Police Department and Tacoma Public Schools are collaborating on a #SeeSomething #SaySomething campaign so that everyone in our community can serve as the eyes and ears of safety—and call 911 so police officers can respond more immediately.

Handling threats to schools

Threatening a school is a crime, and any threat is taken seriously. Tacoma Public Schools has strong relationships with local, state, and federal law enforcement. We are made aware of threats in a variety of ways, including students, staff, families and law enforcement. If you see or hear of a threat to a school, we ask that you report it immediately.

Follow-up to school threats

Follow-up to school threats

If a threat is determined to be credible, law enforcement will take action. Based on the recommendation of law enforcement, TPS may put a school in a modified or full lockdown. Additionally, a school may exclude student(s) involved.

If a threat is determined not to be credible, school will continue as normal. Communications are generally not sent regarding non-credible threats.

School safety features

Security cameras

Tacoma Public Schools has installed multiple passive security camera systems in all high schools and middle schools, and we worked to complete installation in all elementary schools. These camera systems, while not monitored, allow school and law enforcement officials to investigate incidents effectively after they occur.

These features, while they may help a school community feel safer, would not prevent an active shooter event. We wish they would. Unfortunately, experience confirms they won't.

With all that said, we firmly believe in the value of "feeling safe" in school. Fact: students who feel safe at school do better academically.

Who to Call

Threat to a school or a crime in progress - Call 911

Crime not in progress - Call the Non-Emergency TPD Line at (253) 287-4455

Tacoma Public Schools building or property damage - Call TPS Safety and Security at (253) 571-1000

How could we improve safety in our schools?

If you have additional thoughts on what you would like to see happen with school safety, please send your thoughts to us.

Share your thoughts