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Wapato Middle School

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District & Law Enforcement Investigate Rumored Threat

(UPDATE posted at 3:50pm on 1/18/19)
 
Thanks to the efforts of the District's leadership, staff, patrons, security, an multiple law enforcement agencies (Yakima County Sheriff, Yakama Tribal Police, Phoenix Security, 9-1-1, Yakima City Police and Wapato PD) students and staff were able to conduct a productive day of teaching and learning without incident today (1/18/19).  Thanks to all for your assistance.
 
Posted approx 8:00am on 1/18/19)
 
It has come to the District’s attention there have been posts circulating on some social media platforms since last night (1/17/19) regarding concern over a rumor that a former Wapato High School student was threatening violence at the High School today(1/18/19).  The District administration and law enforcement worked to investigate this rumor throughout yesterday and late into the night and are still working on it early this morning.  So far the investigation has not turned up any evidence of a credible threat of violence targeting Wapato High School.  However, as a result of the investigation they did find a social media post involving the former student mentioning a current high school student by name but there was no direct threat of violence.  
Safety is obviously a top priority of the District and we take any hint of a breech in safety very seriously.  So out of an abundance of caution the District will have increased security at the High School throughout the day today, Friday, January 18, 2019. All buildings in the District are also aware of this rumor, the former student referenced in the rumor and the extra security that has been brought into the District for the day. Also as a precaution all recess and PE will be held inside today.
In an ongoing effort to enhance safety and security we encourage anyone who has knowledge of any rumors or hears someone threatening the learning environment to call 911 and/or bring it to the District's attention immediately.