From the Superintendent's Desk
School and Community Members;
As you may be aware, there has been a significant uptick in the number of threats being made in schools across the country and most recently in our region. Recent posts on various social media platforms are actually encouraging students to make false threats to disrupt the learning taking place in our schools. It is important to know that the Royalton-Hartland Central School District has always and continues to make student safety a priority.
The administration and staff are proactive in our approach to school safety. We encourage all students to share with their teachers and administrators any information they have on potential bullying, threats or inappropriate behavior. When a report is made, it is immediately investigated and addressed. In each situation that may involve a threat to a child or our schools, I am immediately notified and our local, county and State law enforcement agencies are notified to assist in addressing the situation as appropriate.
When a false rumor or threat is made, the individual(s) and their families are made aware and appropriate discipline follows. False rumors or unsubstantiated threats are not communicated with families as we do not wish to create additional anxiety or panic. In the event that our students and staff were in danger, appropriate steps would be taken immediately and the community informed.
I ask that you please talk with your children about the importance of reporting any threats, or if they feel in danger please report it to their teacher, counselor or principal immediately. Please monitor your children's social media and speak with them about not making false threats to the school or community. As you may be aware, multiple children in the region have been arrested in the past two weeks at other schools in the region for making threats against several schools.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school principals or myself with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Dr. Hank Stopinski
Superintendent
