DUNCANNON, Pa. — The Susquenita School District was closed Monday due to social media threats, according to a post on the District's Facebook page.
District officials say they were made aware of two threatening social media posts early this morning that "caused alarm to our District, the middle school, and our students."
As a result, all schools and offices in the district were closed on Monday, Sept. 9.
Perry County District Attorney F. Clay Merris announced that the source of the threat, a juvenile with a known connection to Susquenita School District, was identified and is in custody.
Authorities do not believe there is a continuing threat to the public or the school district at this time.
Pennsylvania State Police have requested anyone with information on the incident to call Pennsylvania State Police at 717-567-3110.
Susquenita School District Superintendent Dr. John Fox released the following statement regarding the threats:
"We would like to thank you for your support and flexibility today as we canceled school for all buildings out of an abundance of caution for the safety of students and staff. The PA State Police have identified a District student responsible for the social media posts. The student will face disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and School Board Policy. Please know that after consultation with the PA State Police, all schools will be open for in person learning tomorrow, September 10, 2024. You will likely notice an increase in law enforcement and school safety officer presence in our buildings and our campus.
In addition there are also a few reminders and some additional procedures that we have in place. Please note this is not an exhaustive list, as some measures that are in place are not visible.
Backpacks continue to not be permitted throughout the school day at all school buildings. They must be secured in lockers or in classroom closets.
All visitors, guests, parents/guardians will be screened upon entry. Therefore, please be patient, and clearly identify your name along with the purpose of your visit with our office staff before entering one of our schools.
All visitors, as per regular procedures, must have an identification card ready and available and will register through the use of our visitor management system.
Our outstanding school counselors stay ready to talk with students as these types of incidents can be unsettling. Please encourage your student to talk with one of our counselors, our District Psychologists, or our District Social Worker.
A good resource from the National Association of School Psychologists titled Talking to Children About Violence is a comprehensive tool for your review.
Thank you for your continued support, and if you hear something, please say something as we are all committed to work together for a safe and secure District community."
