The South Butler County School District is again operating on a “modified lockdown” on Friday.
Superintendent Dr. David Foley says the decision was made as a result of rumors that are circulating and calls to the district’s tip line.
“Sadly, as is so often the case, rumors are still circulating,” Foley said in a letter sent to parents Thursday. “Some of those rumors have resulted in calls to the district’s tip line, while others have been reported within the schools, and administrators and school police have interviewed any students involved.”
Foley said none of the rumors or reports have been substantiated.
“There are no known credible threats to students or staff,” he said.
However, the district decided to still operate on a “modified lockdown” on Friday to help alleviate concerns. A “modified lockdown” means no visitors will be admitted to any school buildings, and students will remain indoors the entire school day.
School police will also continue their heightened visibility, and local police forces will continue their patrol of the South Butler school campus.
“We want to emphasize that the same law enforcement personnel who handled the situation last weekend have investigated and have not been able to find credibility within these rumors,” Foley said. “We believe that in the interest of uninterrupted instruction, we need to provide this extra layer of security.”
On Monday, 18-year-old Jason Bowen of Middlesex was arrested for allegedly posting a threatening video online. In the Snapchat video, Bowen can allegedly be seen firing an AK-style rifle with the caption “Training for Prom Walk.”
When police went to Bowen’s home, they allegedly found drugs and brass knuckles in his bedroom. Bowen is now facing terroristic threat charges, among others.
The South Butler tip line continues to be available by phone (724-352-1700 ext 5911) or email (tipline@southbutlernet). Students are also encouraged to reach out to their building principal or counseling department as well.
“Safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we need to work as a community to ensure the safety of our schools,” Foley said. “Moving forward, we encourage you to talk to your children about telling what they know or see.”
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