Reports of a threat made against Springfield High School

An investigation yesterday determined that if there was a threat, that threat has been mitigated.





Statement on Today’s Threat Investigation - March 1, 2018


Dear parents, students, and faculty,

This is Zach McLaughlin, the Superintendent of Schools. I am calling this afternoon to ease fears about a story that is circulating concerning a threat against the high school. I am also calling to ask for your help in ensuring that our schools are places that feel safe for our students and staff.

This morning several students and a parent alerted the high school administration of a possible future threat to the school. High School Administration began investigating immediately. Springfield Police soon arrived to assist. Springfield PD and Springfield School District worked collaboratively to assess the validity of the story.

At this point, the high school administration has determined that a comment was made by a student that implied a threat; however, based on today’s investigative process, the Springfield School District and the Springfield Police Department feel that, if there was a threat, that threat has been mitigated. School will be open tomorrow, and while there will be a law enforcement presence on campus, it is for the peace of mind of all of you and not due to threat concerns.

Finally, I want to reach out to our parents for help. We have entered a time where school administration and police cannot treat a comment like the one today with anything other than a high degree of concern and seriousness. In the coming days, we will be having age appropriate conversations with students about the things they say. I ask that you do the same. The time when making a flip remark about doing harm to a school are over. Our society has changed in that way. It’s sad, but it is our new reality.

I also ask that you talk to your children about the importance of coming forward to staff about potential danger. Students will often hear of potential concerns before adults. Students and adults working together help make our school communities stronger and safer.

Thank you for your time. We look forward to welcoming you back to school tomorrow.

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Raising children to resist violence: what you can do

Nearly every day the news reports stories about children committing acts of violence, often against other children.

Research has shown that violent or aggressive behavior is often learned early in life. However, parents, family members and others who care for children can help them learn to deal with emotions without using violence. Parents and others can also take steps to reduce or minimize violence.

Parents play a valuable role in reducing violence by raising children in safe and loving homes. Here are suggestions that can help. You may not be able to follow each one exactly, but doing what you can will make a difference in your children's lives.

Suggestions for Dealing with Children