The following email was sent to parents at 12:00 PM on 9/12/2024:
Dear Bulldogs,
We want to inform you that we are aware of online threats made toward several school districts in the area yesterday. Fortunately, Bement CUSD was not listed among the targeted schools, and local authorities have investigated and addressed the threats to other districts.
The Illinois State Police have shared the following information with school districts:
The Statewide Terrorism & Intelligence Center (STIC) is monitoring an influx of social media posts threatening mass school shootings and/or bombings in Illinois and across the nation.
Screenshots of these threats are circulating on platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, targeting school communities nationwide.
These posts often include a list of schools with accompanying threats of violence, such as shootings or bombings.
Although these threats are believed to be non-credible, they continue to spread among school-aged students.
Additionally, local authorities have reported recent incidents, including:
The arrest of a 14-year-old in Champaign for making a false report of an active threat.
Two separate false threats in Decatur that resulted in the arrests of an 11-year-old and a 13-year-old.
We understand the concerns raised when situations like this occur so close to home. Some of our students have expressed anxiety about being at school and have asked whether there were any threats made against Bement. We have spoken with these students to address their concerns and provide reassurance.
We want to ensure that all parents are aware of these developments and remind you to reach out to us or local law enforcement if you hear of any threats or potential threats to the safety of the Bement School community.
Thank you for your continued support and vigilance.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Vogt