An important message to families about Social Media Threats

Families,

We need your help.

We understand there is a heightened awareness of student threats — both on social media and in the public conversation. This is also a natural response after a horrific tragedy like what happened in Florida last week. It is also common for there to be an increase of hoaxes and fake “threats” on social media surrounding a school tragedy.

We have worked with Lincoln Police on several reports this week and continue to work with them today. We appreciate the vigilance in a community coming together to keep our children safe. Please know that our LPS security team is working with the staff at each school and with law enforcement each and every day for the safety of our schools. At this time we have not identified any credible threats but will continue to follow up.

At Lincoln Public Schools we take each and every threat to our schools seriously and we work closely with the Lincoln Police Department and other law enforcement officials to quickly and thoroughly investigate each and every one.  Our goal is make sure our staff and students are safe.

We would appreciate your help.

First, please continue to report any threats of violence to school officials or law enforcement. We will investigate each and every one.  Encourage your children to do the same.

Second, at the same time, we urge adults and students to stop the dangers of passing on inaccurate, threatening social media posts and rumors. Spreading false information and rumors only slows down our investigation process. Talk to your children about responsible use of social media. There is nothing funny in joking about violence or “fake threats,” wasting precious time and resources of school and law enforcement officials.

We have counselors at each school available to speak with any student who is feeling the stress of recent events. Here is information for you as a parent on how you can help your child.

Meanwhile, we assure you that today in school our teachers are teaching and students are learning in normal school routines.

Please, if you have any further concerns, work with our school’s administration. We are keeping students safe by working in partnership with respectful and responsible adults.

Mary Kay Roth/Director, Communications/Lincoln Public Schools
mkroth@lps.org
402-436-1609/402-617-0021
www.lps.org