In light of the recent alarming discovery of weapons found in a student’s vehicle in the Union High School parking lot, many parents have expressed outrage that the school district did not immediately notify them.

Though the matter was handled quickly and smoothly by school and law enforcement officials, Dowagiac Union School District should take the necessary steps to notify parents in every way possible.

In the event an emergency arises on school grounds, parents expect to be notified of the incident and all its details. While there has been speculation on whether a letter written by Supt. Mark Daniel was distributed and sent home, parents reported they received an automated phone call explaining the situation a few days after the incident took occurred. The district must use this experience as a learning experience.

There will always be students who are given specific materials to take home to their parents, but never finish handing over the items.

An automated phone call will not reach families who don’t have telephone service or who didn’t sign up for it.

Instead, administrators should take all steps necessary to distribute many forms of communication to the parents of their students as quickly as possible.

A letter sent home should be stamped and placed in the mail. An automated phone call should be directed the same day of an incident.

Many parents are also connected online, which allows for email and website notifications, too.

In the event an incident arises on district campuses, information distributed from the source prevents needless miscommunication, worry and rumors.

This editorial represents the views of the editorial board.