Newton school district praises police chief for handling of threat

Superintendent Tom Messinger released a letter today thanking Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess and his entire staff at the police department for keeping students safe and for taking extra precautions after an anonymous online threat was made against Berg Middle School late last month.

The letter was shared ahead of time with school board members at their meeting on Nov. 14. Messinger said the letter would be sent to Burdess the next day. In it, he said it was reassuring to know the school district can always count on the police chief and his officers to serve and protect everyone in the Cardinal family.

“In the evening of Oct. 27, 2022, after your work day was already over, you continued to work diligently to respond to an online threat against one of our schools,” Messinger said in the letter. “You addressed the situation with the usual calm, thoughtful and thorough approach.”

Messinger praised Burdess’ knowledge and understanding of school procedures and policies, as well as his collaborative approach with the school district, which he said was aimed at protecting the safety of everyone in all buildings and minimizing any disruptions to school operations.

With the assistance provided by the Newton Police Department, the school district was able to hold school and provide a safe and secure environment for students and staff. Messinger also commended Burdess for being present at the middle school, as well as the additional officers on the premises.

Student and parent interactions with the police officers “were all extremely positive,” Messinger said, and it was clear to him that Cardinal students, parents and staff were comfortable approaching authorities. Messinger said this indicates to him that local police officers have built strong community relationships.

“As always, your help and support are greatly appreciated,” Messinger said in the letter to Burdess. “I am proud to consider the Newton Police Department a partner to the Newton Community School District. I look forward to the years to come, working together for our community and our school district.”

Messinger told Newton News on Nov. 14 that police have still not identified the source of the threat made against Berg Middle School. The police and school district added extra security measures in response to the threat, including prohibiting students from bring backpacks and at-the-door searches.