Extra Security at Woodmont Middle in Response to Non-Credible Threat
Greenville County, S.C. – Security Heightened After Social Media Threat
Woodmont Middle School students and their parents experienced an unexpectedly unsettling Monday morning after a shooting threat emerged on social media. Although the threat was deemed non-credible by authorities, it led to increased security measures at the school as a standard precautionary measure.
The Non-Credible Threat
Over the weekend, unidentified posts swirling on social media platforms suggested a potential threat to Woodmont Middle School. The authorities were promptly alerted, and after a thorough investigation, concluded that the threat was without substance and posed no credible danger to students or staff.
“School officials can confirm that there is no credible threat at Woodmont Middle School. The alleged threat’s source and validity have been thoroughly vetted with local law enforcement agencies,” the school district stated in response to inquiries.
Additional Security Measures
Despite the threat being deemed non-credible, the school district has decided to raise the security level during the school day. This increase in security comes as a routine measure to ensure the safety and comfort of students, staff, and school families.
“To alleviate any potential concerns, we have arranged for additional security to be present at the school, even though we firmly believe there is no credible threat.” They further urged parents to discuss with their children the serious consequences of making threats, even in jest, towards any educational institution.
No Disruption to School Schedule
Parents and students were reassured that usual school operations would continue, with no changes to the normal schedule. Officials believe the extra security presence will drive home the importance of safety at school, yet allow students to carry on with their regular day-to-day activities.
Continued Vigilance
The school also asked the community to continue following the “See Something, Say Something” principle. It repeated the importance of the role that students, staff, and community members play in securing school safety by reporting any potential threats or concerns.
Personal Responsibility in Social Media Use
As part of their closing statement, officials also emphasized proper social media habits. They pointed out the potentially dire consequences of irresponsible actions online, including false threats that may subject the individual responsible to criminal charges and disciplinary action by the school.