Illinois Law Requires Schools to Post No Concealed Carry Signs

The safety of our students is always a top priority. The administration and board of education takes very seriously their responsibility to ensure the safety of the students. OLCHS has a plan in place to handle emergency situations, and our staff has made great strides in recent years to increase security.

Beginning later this month, you will see more evidence of this commitment to security in the form of "no concealed carry" signs posted around campus. The Illinois' concealed carry law was passed in 2013 and allows individuals to apply for licenses to carry a concealed firearm. However, carrying a concealed weapon is prohibited in school buildings or on school property, according to the law (430 ILCS 66/). Public Act 98-63 requires that schools, hospitals, most buildings of the State's executive or legislative branch agencies, public parks, sports stadiums, and museums post this sign.

In an effort to keep our students safe and to be in compliance with state law, OLCHS will display the Illinois State Police issued signs shown in this notice on our school doors to remind those with concealed carry licenses that firearms are not permitted in Oak Lawn Community High School or on school grounds such as the Spartan Athletic Complex.

In addition, parents and students are reminded of the zero tolerance policy enforced by the Oak Lawn Police Department regarding driving violations within the school zone. Some of the violations include: no phone usage, no texting while driving, speeding in a school zone, passing a school bus while loading or unloading, and seat belt violations to name a few.

Keeping our students safe is a top priority, and the administration is grateful for the police presence around our schools to help enforce these laws. Your efforts and cooperation in keeping our schools safe is appreciated