Pike County’s sheriff and the school superintendent reached out to parents, students and the community last week regarding school safety.
“Since the tragic event in Barrow County last week, our teachers and administrators have been diligently and thoroughly responding to reports from students regarding various concerns. Upon investigation, every report has been confirmed as hearsay or rumor. While we cannot provide public updates on every investigation, please know that the superintendent and the sheriff are in daily communication as we review concerns that come to our attention. Pike County Schools investigates every report,” said superintendent Shane Williamson. “As a school district, we remain committed to the safety of our students and staff. Various tools are being utilized across our district such as alert badges and routine administrator safety walks throughout campus.”
An alert was sent to parents on Sept. 11 stating that a student was in need of immediate medical attention at the high school and medical personnel and emergency vehicles were at the school.
“Typically, we would not notify you of these type circumstances. However, in light of recent events we wanted to ease possible concerns,” said the alert.
Sheriff Jimmy Thomas also issued a message to parents and students, noting that if anyone makes “a post with veiled or outright threats, jokingly or not, you can be charged and go to jail.”
He also encouraged parents to talk with students about their actions and the possible consequences of social media posts.
“It seems that across the state and nation, law enforcement and school districts are being overwhelmed with threats of potential violence,” said sheriff Thomas. “Fortunately, our students have a good working relationship with the School Resource Officers and school officials. We have only dealt with rumors thus far. While the rumors in and of themselves are taxing on everyone involved, we greatly appreciate you helping us make Pike County a safer, better place.”
Two security monitors as well as School Resource Officers patrol on Pike school campuses before, during and at the close of each school day.
“Since the event in Barrow, we have held tabletop discussions led by our Safety Director and engaged in a thorough review of our plan as we learned from the events that unfolded on that campus,” said superintendent Williamson. “The recent events in our state have understandably created a sense of uncertainty within the community. Please be assured that we are diligently following all safety protocols to ensure a secure learning environment for our students and staff. Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding.”