Dear Oliver W. Winch Families,
Earlier today — Friday, Dec. 19 — a report was made to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office alleging a student made a threat of violence against a middle school staff member. Students had reported the rumor to staff on Thursday, Dec. 18, and after interviews, the students who reported it stated that it was a rumor from weeks ago.
Since we take all reports of potential threats seriously, we immediately began an investigation in collaboration with law enforcement. After a thorough review, our law enforcement partners and district administration determined that this rumor is unsubstantiated.
There was an increased law enforcement presence at the middle school this morning. At no time was there a safety issue for any of our students or staff members.
As we have seen numerous times, scenarios such as this are an all too common occurrence in school districts across the country. We strongly urge all parents and guardians to have a serious, in-depth conversation with their children regarding the gravity of making threatening statements, off-hand comments, or “jokes” about violence and weapons.
Both the South Glens Falls Central School District and our law enforcement partners take such threats extremely serious. Such statements can create fear, disrupt the learning environment, and cause emotional harm. They also violate district policy and, in some cases, may result in law enforcement involvement.
We appreciate the students who came forward and the partnership of law enforcement in helping us respond immediately. As always, we encourage our students to report to a trusted adult in their building any concerning statements they see or hear immediately.
Concerns can always be anonymously reported via our Let’s Talk system through our district website.
We thank you for your continued support, understanding and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Mike Hammond, Oliver W. Winch Middle School Principal