There were a couple of incidents last year involving a "First Amendment Auditor" and other problematic activities during school hours by the large play structure just outside of the school grounds.  These incidents have brought to light the lack of security in that area.  Some other issues with having this area open to the public: Loose dogs, the creek (which often collects rogue balls from the playground), random adults using the path next to the creek, etc...

Other schools in the area, specifically "Leo R. Croce Elementary School" are completely fenced in.

It is understood that the play structure is shared between the school and LARPD, however, we would like to propose that the large play structure be fenced in and locked during school hours.  The gates should be unlocked and the play structure should be available for public use outside of school hours.  

On 8/4/2025, an email from Principal Andrea Tapia stated, "In alignment with district guidance and with student safety as our highest priority, we will be keeping all students and staff within the fenced areas of campus during the school day. This means we will not be using the large playground or grassy area outside the fencing to start the year."

This sentiment was reversed the next day by Superintendent Tori Gibson in an email stating: "There was a miscommunication and incorrect guidance given by district office staff to the school’s administrative team, which led to the initial decision to restrict access to the large playground and grassy area outside the fenced campus. This directive was inaccurate, as the site is not restricted from using that portion of the property."

We, the concerned parents of Altamont Creek Elementary's wonderful students, would like our children to be safe and protected on school grounds, during school hours, by denying public access to student areas.

Please keep our children safe by constructing a fence around the play area and by keeping our children on school grounds until the fence is erected.