The District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) mission is to ensure that students reach their full potential through rigorous and joyful learning experiences provided in a nurturing environment. This commitment requires DCPS to regulate school buildings, classrooms, and other aspects of the school community. Schools are public institutions and should be open to visits from parents and other interested parties to the extent that visits do not compromise student or staff safety and do not disrupt the education process or school operations. School buildings will continue to be open to the public as long as visitors do not disrupt school instruction, operation, or activities; or compromise the safety and security of students and staff.
The school principal has the primary responsibility for ensuring visitor access and conduct are monitored and supervised while on school property. The principal has the authority to deny access to any individual seeking to enter the school if the principal determines that the visitor’s presence poses a danger or disruption to school instruction, operations, or activities, or to students and staff. Visitors who pose a threat or disruption to the school environment may be denied access, expelled from the school building and grounds, or barred subject to the provisions of DCPS School Barring Notice Procedures and other related documents on barring notices and temporary barring notices.
This policy provides general procedures that apply to all visits to school buildings and school grounds, as well as specific guidelines for parents and legal/court-appointed guardians, professionals, law enforcement officials, and attorneys. The policy also includes specific information related to the release of student records. This policy applies to all DCPS school buildings and all exterior school grounds, including playgrounds and any other buildings and areas on DCPS property, at all times.
Links to related policies:
