Dear APS families and staff, 

In recent days, many districts and police departments across Massachusetts and the country have been subjected to hoax calls of an armed intruder at high schools. Andover has so far been spared this situation. We want to assure our families that Andover Police, Andover Fire Rescue and the district are prepared to respond to our schools and to implement emergency protocols in case we do receive this type of call. If this unfortunate situation does occur, students and staff will be placed in shelter-in-place, and no one will be allowed to enter or leave the building until law enforcement determines whether the call is a hoax commonly known as “swatting.” All APS schools had ALICE safety training at the beginning of the school year and we are prepared at all schools to respond accordingly. Andover High School Principal Brown reminded our AHS staff this morning of best practices in case this situation does occur.

We know that for those receiving these types of notifications, it can be unsettling, worrisome, and puts us all on edge. We are hopeful that sharing this information in advance will reassure you that we are prepared to respond as necessary to ensure the safety of our community. 

Dr. Magda Parvey, Superintendent

Chief Patrick Keefe, Andover Police Department

Chief Michael Mansfield, Andover Fire Rescue