Superintendent Jonathan Raymond issued a statement later in the day.
Parents, Guardians: Social Media Vigilance Requested
Dear City School District of New Rochelle Family:
The City School District of New Rochelle learned this morning about a social media threat to commit violence at Albert Leonard Middle School. The New Rochelle Police Department quickly was alerted. An investigation determined that the threat was not credible, and thankfully, school activities are proceeding normally today.
Our school district takes immediate action to respond to any threat, real or perceived, because nothing is more important than the safety and health of our school district community. This includes the children you entrust to us, as well as our families, faculty, and staff.
That level of caring inspires my letter to you today. We are requesting our community’s assistance in providing important guidance and education about social media, as well as vigilance in monitoring our youths’ social media activity.
Some social media posts can cause extreme worry, and they have broad impact. Children today have access to a world online that did not exist just a few years ago. I know that, even for parents and guardians, this ever-transforming and expanding world can be complex to navigate. As such, we ask that you please:
Discuss with your child the consequences of posting inappropriate content or threats on social media. It is important to emphasize that everything on social media can quickly become public, even if shared only with one other person.
Alert your child’s school and law enforcement if you or your children see a post of potential concern.Monitor your child’s online and social media behavior and have open, positive conversations with them.
Thank you for your support and continued efforts to keep all of our children safe online and at school.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Raymond
Superintendent