Columbia Public Schools releases letter to parents after threatening rumors

ABC 17 News has confirmed with Columbia Public Schools (CPS) that there will be increased security at schools on the last day of classes due to circulating rumors.

The rumors had to do with kids “shooting up” Battle High School. ABC 17 News emailed Michelle Baumstark, the spokesperson for CPS, who said that it was “an out-of-hand rumor.”

“It has been thoroughly investigated by the school and law enforcement and there is absolutely no evidence to support it,” said Baumstark.

The Superintendent of CPS also sent out a letter to parents about rumors and school safety. You can read the full letter below:

“Dear Parent or Guardian,

I am sending this letter in order to provide you with accurate information, to discourage rumors and to ask for your assistance. There have been rumors and chatter regarding a possible planned violent act at Battle High School – mostly in the form of a gun being brought to campus or a possible shooting. As with all threats, Columbia Public Schools and law enforcement have thoroughly investigated and have determined there is absolutely no evidence to support such rumors.

We take the safety and security of our schools and students very seriously. We will not tolerate threats of any nature, especially when they cause disruption to the school day and result in countless hours of work to determine their validity and secure the safety of students and staff.

The statements and rumors being spread verbally and on social media constitute terroristic threats and are subject to punishment according to Board of Education policy, which could include, but is not limited to, expulsion from the school district. Students need to be aware that law enforcement agencies are taking these threats very seriously and are pursuing prosecution even when such incidents are intended as pranks. Please make sure your child is aware of these ramifications and that he or she understands hoaxes and spreading rumors related to campus safety will not be tolerated.

We need to come together as a community of students, parents and school personnel to avoid such disruptions to learning. I urge you to talk to your children now and impress upon them the seriousness of threats in today’s society. Ask them to notify you or the school should they hear of any planned or potential disruptive behavior. We want everyone to feel safe at school, so there will be additional safety personnel on-hand for the last day and a half of school.

The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority, and we will continue to be vigilant. Please feel free to call my office or the school directly should you have any questions or comments.

I appreciate your continued support of a safe learning environment for our students.

Sincerely,

Peter Stiepleman

Superintendent

Columbia Public Schools”