Alyssa Mathews

Students going to class during a passing period on Friday, Sept. 22. A police car was also stationed in front of the Performing Arts Center.

LOS ALAMITOS, CA — On Friday, Sept. 22 Los Alamitos High School was much emptier than normal. The large number of student absences was unusual for Los Al, compared to a typical day.

“There was [almost] no one there, so it was really weird,” said Anthony Feliciano, a freshman.

Student attendance on Sept. 22 being lower than usual made a noticeable difference in Los Al’s crowds and class sizes. The campus is usually filled and crowded, but with the high amount of absences on Friday, many areas were spacious and unfilled.

“Going to school on Friday was like it was the last day of school,” said Marilyn Solis, another freshman.

A threat later deemed non-credible was found in the girls’ bathroom a few weeks ago, addressing the date Sept. 22. Los Al was open with families and students about the threat and gave multiple updates of new information on ParentSquare. Los Al also worked with law enforcement and took appropriate precautions to ensure students’ safety.

“I thought it was a little concerning,” said a senior who asked to remain anonymous, “but I also wanted to stay home. I did my college application and I was productive during my time away. It was also just a way to convince my mom to let me stay home.”

“Sept. 22 is a perfect example of how important open and transparent communication is,” said Mr. Sells, a Los Al biology teacher.  “Our safety and freedom depend on our ability to communicate well with one another.”

At Los Al, the average Friday has approximately 120 students absent, which sharply contrasts with Sept. 22, when approximately over 1000 students were absent.

“There was concern by students and parents due to that,” said Mr. Bowen, Assistant Principal of Attendance and Student Services, “but students are all absent for other reasons including illnesses and appointments.”

Because of the circumstances of the day, lower student attendance last Friday affected both students and teachers at Los Al. The school will continue to work with the community to help prevent similar situations in the future.

“We remain committed to collaborating with our students, staff, and families to nurture and further strengthen these aspects within our community,” Principal Kraus said. “Together, we can ensure that our school remains a place where every student feels safe, valued, and secure.”