September 18, 2024
Dear Chenango Valley Families,
Following this week’s communications with our families and with the knowledge of a recent increase in threats impacting schools through social media and other platforms, both nationally and locally, I want to share an important message developed in collaboration with BOCES and our area school districts.
I want to reassure you that, along with all schools in our region, we take any reports seriously and follow established safety protocols. Threats—whether meant as pranks, jokes, or something more serious—pose significant risks and can have severe consequences for our community. Threats made as pranks or jokes create unnecessary fear, disrupt the learning environment, and divert critical resources from law enforcement and school personnel.
It is important to understand that making threats against a school is a crime. Whether these threats are made directly, implied, or shared by forwarding posts from others, they are taken seriously by law enforcement and can result in criminal charges.
Legal and Criminal Consequences
Students who make or share threats may face serious legal consequences, including arrest, criminal prosecution, and records that could impact future opportunities. Additionally, suspension or expulsion may be enforced under our district’s Code of Conduct.
Code of Conduct and School Discipline
In addition to legal consequences, our district has clear policies on handling threats. Any student responsible for making, sharing, or spreading threats—whether real or perceived—will face disciplinary actions as outlined in the district’s Code of Conduct. This may include suspension or expulsion, regardless of the student's intent.
The Role of Parents and Caregivers
We ask for your support in discussing the seriousness of this issue with your children. Even vague or joking threats can have far-reaching consequences. We encourage you to monitor your child’s social media use and remind them to report concerning content to a trusted adult, school staff, or law enforcement, rather than sharing or reposting it. Forwarding or reposting a threat can still make them accountable under the law and school policies.
“See Something, Say Something: Report it, Don’t Repost it”
If you or your child see or hear something concerning—whether online or in person—please report it immediately to a school official or law enforcement. Prompt reporting can help prevent potential incidents and keep our schools safe. When concerns or threats are circulated and reposted instead of reported directly, it’s like a game of "telephone"—the further it spreads, the harder it becomes to trace the original source.
Collaborating for a Safer School Community
Through my conversations with parents over the last few days, I recognize the need to provide opportunities for our school community to discuss these incidents and explore preventive measures. We are currently looking into partnering with law enforcement and other agencies to better educate our students and families on steps we all can take to ensure a safe learning environment.
Through awareness, education, and open communication, we can help prevent these situations and ensure that our schools remain safe spaces for learning. We thank you for your partnership in reinforcing the importance of responsible behavior, both online and in person, with your child.
We will continue to keep you informed. If you have any questions or need additional information about how to talk to your child about this issue, please feel free to contact your school administration or counselor.