March 30, 2007

Dear ARHS Parents and Guardians,

This morning at approximately 11:10, a teacher notified the main office that a student reported to him that there was a white shoe box in one of the stairwells with the words ‘this is a bomb’ written on the side.

We immediately called 911 and emergency services – both police and fire – responded. As well, the entire building was placed on ‘lockdown’. This means that adults gathered up all students near their classrooms – this occurred during a passing period – and secured them behind locked classroom doors. Normal activities continued, but no one was allowed out of the classroom.

 Classrooms in the vicinity of the stairwell where the box was seen were also evacuated to the auditorium.

 By the time the police searched the hallway, someone had removed the box. A search was then conducted of the entire building. Each classroom, office and trash receptacle was searched. At this time, the box has not been recovered.

In consultation with the police, a determination was made that the threat was not credible and the lockdown was rescinded. By 12:11 pm, all students were back in their appropriate class and the afternoon routine had resumed.

Two final items: earlier this month, we practiced the lockdown procedures with every adult in the building. I am glad we did. When we needed to call a lockdown in real time, we were prepared to do so. The adults responded very well and, consequently, the kids were secure.

 Lastly, when we identify the person who put the box in the stairwell, he or she will enjoy the following consequences: a 10 day external suspension, responsibility to make restitution for the cost of emergency services and a report filed with the Amherst Police Department.

 I will be available at 5:30 pm today in the high school library to answer questions or concerns.

      Sincerely,

     Mark Jackson, Principal