Reported school threat determined not be credible

School was disrupted last week by a possible threat that was later determined not to be credible.

There was no school at Lake Roosevelt Schools on March 16, then only a distance-learning day March 17 due to the alleged threat through a reported remark on social media.

The incident was described in a March 17 Facebook post shared on the Lake Roosevelt Jr/Sr High School page from the Grand Coulee Dam School District’s administration.

The post explains that at 6:25 a.m. on March 16 “we got a call from a parent stating that their student received a message on [social media app] SnapChat from another student saying they heard about a possible school shooting. The student did not make a threat, but referenced an alleged threat.

“Upon receiving the information above, administration immediately contacted law enforcement and made the decision to cancel school to allow for investigation. Law enforcement investigation included interviewing students and parents, consulting with the FBI, and coordination with school administration.

“At this time it has been determined by law enforcement that there is NO known threat to the school. The student who sent the message referencing an alleged threat had no actual or credible knowledge of a threat.

“Students can safely return to school. School staff have reviewed safety protocols as good practice. School counselors are available to all our students who might need additional support.

“The district has invited law enforcement to be present at school as a show of support when students return to campus. We hope this will be a reassuring presence for everyone.

“We ask our families to monitor their child’s social media and talk with their child about safe behavior online. Even if threats are determined to be not credible they can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for our community. Please have conversations with your child about online safety.

“If you or your child become aware of a potential threat, online or elsewhere, please contact proper authorities right away.”

Kennedy thanked school staff in a subsequent post “for the hard work, support, and determination they have shown in the last few weeks” and expressed her appreciation to “law enforcement for their efforts and assistance. It will take all of us to heal and move forward, we’re stronger together.”

The school website, gcdsd.org, now has additional resources for reporting information, as well as tips for parents and educators for talking to children about violence, in addition to the school district’s anonymous form for reporting harassment, intimidation, and bullying.