North Middle School officials say a campus safety concern reported earlier today has been resolved after a threatening message circulated on social media.
According to a press release issued by Franklin County Schools, administrators at North Middle School were alerted to a threatening post involving the campus that had been shared on Snapchat. School officials immediately activated safety protocols and contacted local law enforcement.
Authorities quickly identified the individuals involved in the incident, and they are now in the custody of law enforcement.
School officials emphasized that students and staff remained safe throughout the situation and that the campus remained secure while the matter was investigated.
“Please be assured that all students and staff are safe, and our campus remains secure,” the statement said. “In strict accordance with Franklin County Board of Education policy, we immediately activated our safety protocols and engaged local law enforcement.”
District leaders also used the incident as an opportunity to remind students and parents that threats of violence—whether intended as a joke or not—are treated seriously by both schools and law enforcement.
Officials warned that threats of mass violence can result in significant legal and disciplinary consequences. Those consequences may include immediate law enforcement intervention, potential criminal charges, severe school disciplinary action up to and including expulsion, and lasting impacts on a student’s permanent record.
School leaders stressed that even posts made as jokes or attempts to gain attention can carry serious repercussions.
The district also praised those who reported the concerning post, noting that the situation was resolved quickly because someone spoke up.
“We want to commend the individuals who brought this information to our attention,” the release stated. “Their quick actions allowed us to resolve the situation swiftly.”
Franklin County Schools also encouraged families to continue reinforcing the message of “See Something, Say Something” with students and to talk with their children about responsible behavior online and the seriousness of threats.
District officials expressed appreciation for the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department and their rapid response in assisting with the investigation.
School officials say they will continue working closely with law enforcement and the community to ensure student safety and maintain a secure learning environment.
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