WORTHINGTON, Ohio — A middle school in Worthington was closed Tuesday as police investigated a shooting threat made toward the school.
McCord Middle School Principal Michael Kuri said he received several emails from students and parents about a Snapchat group where someone threatened to shoot the school.
"Please know that we take all threats seriously, and the safety of McCord Middle School is a top priority. Out of an abundance of caution, and to allow the Columbus Police and Counter Terrorism Unit to investigate, we felt it necessary to close school for today," Kuri said in the letter.
Authorities traced the Snapchat user to California. Kuri told families in a new letter that there is no direct threat to McCord or any other Worthington schools.
The school will be holding parent-teacher conferences Tuesday evening and school will be in session as normal on Wednesday with an added police presence.
In the letter to parents, Kuri included the following:
“This incident brings up a few important points I want to address. First, I encourage you to have a conversation with your child about this situation and the responsible use of social media. We will also discuss this with students, reinforcing our behavioral expectations, the acceptable use of technology, and encouraging them to report any concerns. Next, it’s important that every student feels safe and comfortable at school. Threats, whether in person or online, are unacceptable and have no place in our school community. Finally, I understand that incidents like this can be upsetting, and some students may feel anxious or stressed. Our school counselor and mental health specialist are available to provide support to any student who may need assistance in the days ahead.”