Anyone who makes a threat against a school, even if “just joking”, is going to get into big trouble. That’s the message from every school district, including Port Huron Schools, in the wake of the tragic school shooting at Oxford High School and the rash of copycat threats throughout the region.
Port Huron Schools Superintendent Theo Kerhoulas sent a letter to families last week explaining what will happen to those who make threats. Kerhoulas said that students who make threats “have and will be arrested” and urged parents to talk with their kids about how serious a threat is. School expulsion and charges from law enforcement are the consequences of threatening the safety of a school.
Port Huron Schools is working with local agencies to keep schools safe and to provide mental health help for kids who are experiencing anxiety.
Social media use has been proven to drive up anxiety for students. In MSU Today, Zakia Alavi, a child development expert said that parents should limit exposure to tv and social media coverage of tragic events so as not to “re-traumatize”.
Any suspicious behavior or perceived threats should be immediately reported to authorities, instead of reposting on social media. Tips can always be given at michigan.gov/ok2say.
Reporting for WGRT- Jennie McClelland
