September 18, 2024
Dear Parents/Guardians,
The safety of our students and staff is one of our top priorities. Any threats of violence, regardless of credibility, are treated with the utmost seriousness. Please be assured that all threats are thoroughly investigated in close partnership with our local law enforcement.
Threats made against our schools will result in serious consequences. Students found responsible for making such threats will face disciplinary action under our school’s Code of Conduct, in addition to potential legal, financial, and criminal repercussions.
This is an important time to have a conversation with your child about the gravity of these situations. Please stress that even threats made in jest can have severe consequences. Remind your children to always report any suspicious or potentially dangerous activity to a trusted adult. The Ohio School Safety Center (OSSC), in partnership with the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association and the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police, has created a video titled Joining Together for School Safety. We encourage you to watch it with your child.
Additionally, the OSSC offers the Safer Ohio School Tip Line (844-723-3764), an anonymous reporting system available 24/7. This service connects you with crisis response professionals who will ensure that any concerns are swiftly directed to local law enforcement and school officials for investigation. You can report concerns via phone, text, the Safer Ohio smartphone app, or through their webform.
Let us continue to work together to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for all students. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership.
Sincerely,
Mark Knapp, Superintendent
Wheelersburg Local School District