Newton schools take social media threat seriously

Administrators have responded to a perceived threat made against the Newton Community School District on social media Dec. 14. Newton News learned the threat was posted online and depicted an image of a replica firearm.

Superintendent Tom Messinger said in a statement that the threat was reported to district administration at Newton High School. Officials acted immediately, he said, worked with parents, central office administration and the local police department to ensure the safety of everyone.

“The district is confident there is no threat to anyone in the Newton High School or in the district at this time,” Messinger said. “The situation is being handled according to state law, board policy and the student handbook.”

Board policy states students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school rules or the law. It is within the discretion of the NCSD Board of Education to discipline a student by using an expulsion for a single offense or for a series of offenses depending on the nature and circumstances surrounding the offense.

Under the “Student Conduct” chapter of the board policy manual, the district says “inappropriate student conduct causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment, interferes with the rights of others or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on school premises.”

Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess said the student who allegedly made the social media post was identified by authorities. Any related charges to the threat are pending. The case is still under investigation. Burdess said the police department thoroughly investigates any threat, even if it is perceived to be minor.

Safety of students and staff is of the utmost importance, Burdess added. The police chief encouraged others to contact the authorities or school staff immediately if they hear or see something they feel is suspicious or could bring harm to those residing in the district.

Read Messinger’s full statement here:

“Earlier today a social media post containing a perceived threat was reported to the administration at Newton High School. School officials acted immediately and worked with the parents, central office administration, and the Newton Police Department to ensure the safety of everyone. The district is confident there is no threat to anyone in the Newton High School or in our district at this time. The situation is being handled according to state law, board policy, and the student handbook.”

Contact Christopher Braunschweig at 641-792-3121 ext. 6560 or cbraunschweig@newtondailynews.com