Full Notification

The following is a joint statement from Pleasantdale School District 107 and the Burr Ridge Police Department:

School Administrators and the Burr Ridge Police Department have been responding to an alarming message posted on social media (Snapchat) on the evening of Monday, December 5, 2016 against Pleasantdale Middle School. The message stated an individual would “bomb the school”, indicating the action would occur in the afternoon of December 6. Thanks to the actions of a student who received the message, police and school officials were immediately notified and able to launch an investigation.  The police determined there was no threat to the safety and security of our school community.
 
While an initial investigation indicated that our students and staff were not at risk at any time, the police and school are continuing to investigate and address this situation to the fullest extent. Board of Education and school policies are being followed to address the actions of the students involved in the situation.  The Burr Ridge Police Department is continuing their investigation to determine whether charges will be filed or further intervention is necessary.  

In keeping with best practice, there will be a visible police presence in place at the school today.
 
As parents and caring adults it is our responsibility to guide students as they use new social media tools. Therefore, supervising children on social media is of critical importance.  Monitoring your child’s digital activity will aide in protecting your child’s digital footprint now and in the future. Maintaining open communication with your child regarding their online activity is essential. In this instance, it was the key to allowing all parties to quickly address this situation. If you would like more information on how to best monitor your child’s online activities please CLICK HERE.
 
We understand that your child may have questions about this incident or his/her safety at school. If this is the case, we encourage you to reassure him or her that the police and the adults in the school are taking the necessary steps to keep all students safe. If your child has additional questions, please contact Carrie Castaldo, social worker, Meg Knapik, assistant principal, or John Glimco, principal.  
 
Ensuring the safety of our school is everyone’s responsibility, and we will continue to keep you informed.  We take every situation seriously, and keeping students safe in school and online is our priority.  As always, we appreciate your cooperation and support for our school and students.