School officials in Baraboo say there is no cause for concern after an investigation into a threat was circulating on social media.
Chief Mark R. Schauf of the Baraboo Police Department said there was a statement made by a student that was taken as a threat to the safety of the school on Friday. They took steps to ensure the safety of students and staff. There’s a full-time school officer in the buillding.
Schauf said some students took to social media and made inaccurate posts that caused additional concern, and because of this additional police presence was placed at the school on Monday morning.
In an email sent to parents Sunday night, the superintendent said, “We took the threat very seriously and moved quickly to full investigate.” She also said the threat has been addressed and there will be extra security present at Baraboo High School on Monday for precaution.
The district administrator says there was a lot of misinformation circulating on social media and they want to ensure all families that school will go on as normal.
The following email was sent to families from District Administrator, Dr. Lori Mueller:
We want to take this opportunity to reassure parents, guardians, students, and staff about the safety of Baraboo High School. The recent event in Florida reminds us all to be sensitive to any signs of a threat and to be extra vigilant in taking care of each other.
The School District of Baraboo and City of Baraboo Police Department officials became aware of a student who posed a threat to Baraboo High School for Monday, February 19th. We took the threat very seriously and moved quickly to fully investigate. Tonight, school and police officials believe that the potential threat and student have been properly addressed. However, additional police presence will be in place at Baraboo HIgh School tomorrow.
This event represents a teachable moment for all of us. We recognize that our young people may not understand the consequences of their actions. Please talk to your child about the seriousness of making any threat that pertains to the safety or security of our schools, students, and staff. Encourage your student to talk to you or to any of the staff at Baraboo High School if they become aware of their friends displaying odd behavior or making potential threats to the safety of others.
We are confident that through working together, we will continue to keep Baraboo High School safe for our children. Thank you for your continued support.
