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Parents visiting Alpena schools may notice changes in Alpena Public School’s safety protocols when students return to classrooms later this month.

Safety precautions for the 2022-2023 school year will include the locking of all doors, coverings over windows facing hallways, badges for visitors, and backpack restrictions for students, an APS spokesman said this week.

All staff will receive Michigan State Police active shooter training, the district said.

The district shared the following safety expectations for the school year:

Doors

* All exterior doors will be locked and closed at all times.

* Doors designated for use at entry and exit will be monitored by a staff member.

* Exterior doors may never be propped open.

* Students and staff may not ever open an exterior door to let anyone into the building.

* Classroom doors will be locked at all times.

* Classroom doors, while locked, may be open to the hallway.

* All glass in and around classroom doors must be covered so the interior of classrooms is not visible from hallways.

Entering a Building

* All visitors and students entering a building during the school day must do so only at designated secure entries.

Badges and Guest Passes

* All APS staff must wear identification badges while at work. Badges must be prominently displayed (not hidden by clothing).

* All visitors must have a guest pass on while in an APS school building.

* Please report any adult that does not have a badge or pass visible to the building administration.

Backpacks

* In grades 6-12, backpacks will remain in lockers during the school day. Students may carry a string bag, small purse, satchel, or laptop case. These items should be no larger than needed to carry their Chromebook (15″x 12″).

Training

* All staff will receive Michigan State Police Active Shooter Training.

* The district will provide additional emergency response training for staff throughout the school year.