On January 7, 2026, Superintendent Dr. Frank Ranelli
shared the message below with LMSD Staff and Families:

Dear Lower Merion School District Community, 

The safety and well-being of our students and employees remain our highest priority. We also value clear and transparent communication. That is why, in alignment with new Pennsylvania School Code requirements, LMSD has refined its existing procedures for notifying families and staff when a student is found possessing a weapon on school property. This letter explains the refinements in greater detail. 

While LMSD has long followed established protocols for responding to and communicating about these situations, this refinement formalizes our practices into a clear, three-tier notification framework to ensure consistency, clarity and transparency. 

In accordance with LMSD Board Policy 235, a weapon is defined as including, but not limited to, any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle, explosive, or other implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury, as well as look-alike or replica weapons. 

All incidents involving weapons are reviewed using the Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines (CSTAG), which emphasize prevention, appropriate intervention, and student support. When required, we work closely with the Lower Merion Police Department, with whom we maintain a strong and collaborative relationship. 

Overview of the Notification Tiers 

• Tier 1: Minimal Impact Incident – Accidental or low-risk situations. For example, a multi-tool with a blade found in a lunchbox or coat pocket, a plastic or foam replica item (toy or costume accessory), or a small blunt tool unintentionally brought from home. 

• Tier 2: Elevated Concern – Unsafe or irresponsible possession without threat. For example, a box cutter or razor blade shown to another student, a realistic metal replica weapon, or unsafe handling of a prohibited item. 

• Tier 3: Major Incident – High-risk weapons or threatening behavior. For example, firearms (including BB or airsoft guns), weapons used to threaten/intimidate/harm, or credible evidence of intent to use a weapon. 

All notifications will be factual but will not identify specific students. These notifications will be shared within the required timeframes. 

We appreciate your continued partnership in reinforcing safety expectations and supporting our school community. If you have questions, please contact your child’s school. 

Sincerely, 

Dr. Frank Ranelli 
Superintendent