In response to a school threat received last week against Breckinridge County Schools, Superintendent Dr. Nick Carter has issued a list of “comprehensive measures” the district takes to protect students and staff members.
The threat, which was received on Wednesday of last week via a SnapChat post, resulted in after-school activities, including scheduled parent/teacher conferences, being cancelled on Wednesday and classes being cancelled the following day.
A student was arrested last Thursday evening for making the threat.
Carter’s statement regarding school safety
Dear Breckinridge County Learning Community,
We understand your concerns about school safety, especially in light of recent events. We want to reassure you of the comprehensive measures we have in place to protect our students and staff.
- Dedicated School Resource Officers (SROs): We have SROs assigned to our high school and middle school, and elementary schools, ensuring a strong presence on campus.
- Collaborative Partnerships: We maintain strong working relationships with local, county, and state law enforcement agencies to coordinate efforts and enhance security.
- Proactive Screening: All students at our high school and middle school pass through weapons detection systems at the start of each school day.
- Controlled Access: Exterior/classroom doors remain locked during school hours to restrict unauthorized access.
- Visitor Screening: All visitors are required to undergo electronic screening and provide a valid reason for entry.
- Surveillance Systems: Our building cameras are directly accessible to Breckinridge County Dispatch for rapid response during emergencies.
- Proactive Safety Audits: The Office of the State School Security Marshal conducts regular, announced safety inspections to ensure our school environment remains secure and identify areas for improvement.
- Safety Network: We work closely with the Kentucky Center for School Safety and local law enforcement to implement best practices and enhance school safety.
- Emergency Preparedness: Each school has tailored emergency plans aligned with state and national standards to ensure a coordinated response in case of emergencies.
- Anonymous Reporting: The statewide STOP Tipline provides a safe and anonymous way for students, staff, and parents to report potential safety concerns.
Carter also issued the following guidance to parents/guardians:
“While we take many steps to keep students and staff safe at school, you also have an important role to play. Monitoring and addressing appropriate use of social media at home is very important. Social media can be useful but can also spread misinformation, creating unnecessary confusion and concern. If you encounter any concerning information on social media, contact our SRO, Brad Norwood, at 270-756-3080 during school hours.
“After-hour concerns should be directed to local law enforcement by calling dispatch at 270-756-6266. You can also contact your child’s school office, the district office, or utilize the STOP Tipline. Utilizing official channels allows us to investigate the matter accurately and promptly. While there is good intent, resharing or posting concerns on social media is not a good practice, often creating more issues and delaying a timely investigation.
“Every threat that impacts our school community will be fully investigated and addressed appropriately. It is also important to remember that any threat to a school, its staff, or its students is subject to legal action for terroristic threatening. Please discuss the seriousness of making threats, whether in person, on social media, or in any form that could be perceived as a terroristic threat. Breckinridge County Schools will pursue charges against anyone—student or adult—who makes a statement that meets this definition.
“Included with this letter is a resource with key topics to discuss with your student. Remind students that their safety is our top priority and that proper communication plays a vital role in keeping our school community safe. We greatly value your partnership in keeping our school community safe and informed.”
(Photo: Dr. Nick Carter, Breckinridge Co. Schools superintendent)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
