School Safety Expert Says Every Threat Must Be Taken Seriously
A threatening social media post placed several Coast school districts on high alert Monday morning, prompting an immediate law enforcement response and investigation.
School threats often raise questions about how districts and law enforcement agencies work together to protect students and staff.
Mo Canady, executive director of the National Association of School Resource Officers and a retired police officer, said every threat should be taken seriously and carefully evaluated before decisions are made about school operations.
“You know, sometimes a school will be quick to make the decision that, okay, we’re not going to have school tomorrow. And in many instances, that is exactly what the person making the threat wants to happen,” Canady said.
Canady said schools and law enforcement agencies must thoroughly investigate threats before determining the appropriate response.
“Every threat must be taken seriously from the very beginning, and it must be investigated as deeply as we can investigate it, both law enforcement and the school district together, before a decision is made as to what we’re going to do about school,” Canady said.
He also emphasized that anyone who makes a threat should understand the consequences, including potential criminal charges in addition to school disciplinary action.
“So that’s something that students really need to understand. There are definite consequences for this. And, you know, and that’s on top of whatever the school were to decide to do. You know, whether it’s suspension or expulsion or whatever disciplinary action the school’s going to take. So states take this very seriously. Law enforcement takes this very seriously.”
Canady added that parents should talk with their children about the real-world consequences of making threats and the disruption they can cause for schools and communities.
The Gulfport School District said students alerted faculty members to the threat early Monday morning. District leaders told News 25 they were thankful community members reported the post quickly.
According to the district, law enforcement continues to investigate the threat. News 25 will provide updates as more information becomes available.
