Supt. Grier may be trying to deflect attention from the pathetic EOC scores to release this, one day before his weekly Friday Spin, but I don’t want to speculate about something as important as the safety of our children. But it is curious timing:
According to the N.C. Center for Prevention of School Violence, school districts in NC and across the country are experiencing a heightened awareness and response to school threats. Last week, Guilford County Schools was reminded how easily rumors and inaccurate information can spread during situations of possible threats to schools.Earlier this week, Greensboro Police received an anonymous call of a threatening nature regarding one of our middle schools from what appeared to be a child. Police immediately responded to the school and worked with administrators to conduct a thorough search of school grounds. The school was determined to be safe and the matter remains under investigation.This incident is reflective of a number of incidents that have occurred throughout the district in recent weeks following the tragic Virginia Tech incident – in total, we’ve experienced 12 threats to schools since that time. While we’re extremely grateful that these threats were unsubstantiated, it is most unfortunate that anyone would attempt to exploit public concern and heightened sensitivities in this manner. It is vital to know that GCS takes all threats made seriously. When false claims are made, every resource is used to investigate these matters and to ensure the safety of all involved. When these incidents occur, the proper law enforcement agency is immediately notified and school and district officials cooperate thoroughly with these agencies. Anyone found to be making threats should be reminded that law enforcement agencies and school administration will take the highest level of action available against such perpetrators.
Please know that it is our philosophy and practice that in situations of a threat to a school, parents be notified via the Connect Ed telephone calling system as soon as safety is ensured. In many of these incidents, parents received calls from students with mobile phones while the situation was being assessed. In all of these cases, inaccurate information was given that served to heighten concern and create panic. Maintaining the safety of our students and staff requires a partnership. We ask that parents not rely on rumors or speculation. Instead, please contact your school administrator or the central office at 370-8100 to verify information and trust that we will communicate with you as quickly as is possible. You have my promise that we will always be transparent and forthcoming with information.
If you have any questions, please contact me at 370-8992.
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