Ambridge Area School District is taking steps to quell racial unrest there.

"The school board and the administration are not going to tolerate any racial tension," Erv Weischedel, who became superintendent in June, said yesterday.

"It's over. We are going to rebuild and heal from this point on."

At Ambridge High School, there were two incidents which may have stemmed from such tensions, a fight last Friday and a disorderly conduct problem that led to two arrests Tuesday. The school has about 900 students; about 10 percent of them are black.

Dr. Weischedel said the district is setting up a student achievement learning committee to help get students more involved academically as well as a community council including police, community members, parents, students and staff.

A cultural diversity club will be formed at the high school, and the African-American Club, whose sponsor is on leave, will get a sponsor.

At elementary schools, there will be diversity initiatives in conjunction with parent-teacher groups.

Community learning groups are to be set up for district residents to provide help with General Educational Development test preparation and other skills from staff and students.

The high school began using metal detector wands on Wednesday, although no weapons have been involved in any incidents, the superintendent said.

The school board Wednesday approved buying a metal detector for the high school's main entrance.