Dear Northville Public Schools Families, Staff and Community,
As you may be aware, there are a number of social media stories circulating regarding potential school safety threats, primarily in Oakland County. As reported by the media, several Oakland County school districts, out of an abundance of caution, have closed schools today. These closings are based on stories circulating via social media that include threats to schools. While deemed not to be credible, these posts have created additional worry and concern for everyone in light of the recent tragedy at Oxford High School.
Northville Public Schools has been in contact with the Northville Township Police Department who have consulted with the Oakland County Sheriff. Based on their investigation of these social media messages, they have not found these to be credible. Local police report that they are not aware at this time of any threats to Northville Public Schools.
Northville High School will have added security measures in place throughout the week, including increased police presence there, and on our other school campuses to the extent feasible. We remain in ongoing communication with the Northville Township Police Department, as well as with the City of Northville Police Department, and Novi Police Department to evaluate any potential concerns.
These are challenging times and we understand that our students, families, teachers and staff may need support in the coming days. Please know that mental health providers will be available to our school community. Do not hesitate to reach out to our counselors and/or social workers should you or your child need support. Additionally , the Talking to Children About Violence Infographic is a model that we use to support students. Please feel free to review this infographic for ideas on how you can support your child at home.
We remain committed to working together as a community to ensure learning takes place in a safe environment and ask that you speak to your children and urge them to reach out to school officials directly or through the State of Michigan’s Ok2Say reporting link or via phone at 8-555-OK2SAY if they hear of any potential dangerous actions that may put our school community at harm. Again, we take all incidents involving student and staff safety seriously and appreciate our partnerships with local law enforcement officials. We ask students, parents, and community members to report all suspicious or threatening activity to law enforcement and/or school/district administration immediately.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
Sincerely,
Mary Kay Gallagher
Superintendent
Northville Public Schools