KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – As law enforcement and schools across the nation deal with a potential threat to school safety on social media posts that refer to “every school in the USA, even elementary,” Friday, December 17, Kalamazoo Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Rita Raichoudhuri says the posts appear to be part of a national trend and did not originate in Kalamazoo or Michigan.
In a message posted on the district’s website and sent to parents last night, she said authorities do not believe the threat to be credible, but they are closely monitoring the situation and are taking it seriously as they do with all threats.
“This situation serves as a good example of why it is important to avoid sharing posts online that refer to school safety threats. Even if they are not credible threats, they can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for our students, families, and staff. We ask our families to monitor their children’s social media activity and speak with them about proper behavior online,” she said.
“If you or your child become aware of any potential threat posted to social media or anywhere else, please notify a school staff member or trusted adult right away.”
Across the state, schools participate in the OK2Say program, a student safety program that allows students to report tips on potential harm or criminal activity directed towards students. KPS also has its own anonymous tip line (269- 488-1019) that can be used to report suspicious or concerning behavior.
Kalamazoo Public Schools buildings participate in numerous safety drills throughout the school year, including three lockdown drills as is required by state law. The district also has school resource officers from Kalamazoo Township Police Department and Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety at Kalamazoo Central and Loy Norrix high schools, and its own staff of 24 campus safety officers.
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