According to the Salida Police Department, prior to Thanksgiving break, a textbook was discovered in an 8th grade classroom at Salida Middle School with racial slurs and a threat written on it referencing December 1st, 2022.
This incident has been investigated by the School Resource Officer, members of the Salida Police Department, and school staff. Multiple students and staff were interviewed in the process. As of now, no one has been able to substantiate this threat as being credible.
The Salida Police Department treats every day as a possible threat and are prepared to act, if needed. The proactive steps the police and school district have taken are designed to drastically reduce any chance of something happening at one of our schools.
The Salida Police Department will have extra police presence both in, and around, all schools for the next few days in the hope that this helps calm and reassure the staff, students, and parents.
“Some may accuse us of going over the top, but school safety is my number one priority,” Salida Police Chief Russ Johnson said in a press release. “I personally feel safe enough to send my own kids to our schools and I hope you do as well.”
In an open letter to students and parents, Salida Middle School Principal Michelle Saab wrote, “I personally spoke with all 8th grade students to continue the conversation and allow for time and space to process. We understand that now students in all grade levels are hearing different things and have increased counseling and office and support for all students and families that need it.”
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