WAKEFIELD — The town joined communities across the nation as they ramped up security at schools following a troubling social media trend threatening safety at educational facilities in the U.S. this morning.
Schools’ Supt. Doug Lyons and Police Chief Steven Skory sent out a message yesterday about the post, which spoke of unspecified violence said to be happening today. “This post is part of a national TikTok trend and did not originate in our district or community, and there has been no specific threat made toward any of Wakefield’s schools. We have heard reports from other districts that the same post is circulating in their schools as well.
“While we do not believe the threat to be credible, we take all threats very seriously and are closely monitoring the situation. Out of an abundance of caution, you may see an increased police presence in our schools on Friday. Schools will continue to operate on their normal schedules with no anticipated disruption.
“This situation serves as a reminder for families to monitor their children’s social media activity and speak with them about proper behavior online. If you or your child become aware of any threat toward the school, please notify a school staff member, the Wakefield Police or a trusted adult immediately.
“We understand that these situations can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for students, families and staff. As always, thank you for your patience as we work to ensure a safe, secure and positive learning environment for our students.”
The threat to schools nationwide has caused confusion and panic among parents and school administrators across the country; some schools closed for the day, others increased their police presence and some parents kept their children home.
The vague threat, with origins that are unclear, features text singling out Friday, Dec. 17, and warns of school shootings and other violence on that day.
No specific schools or locations are mentioned in these viral threats, and law enforcement officials in several school districts across the country have said they have not found any credible threats to specific schools. Still, schools and local police departments are issuing statements and some are increasing the amount of police at schools to calm the public, as some parents opt to keep their children home.
