EASTON — Superintendent Lisha Cabral reports that the Easton Public Schools, in cooperation with the Easton Police and Fire Departments, responded to a bomb threat at Oliver Ames High School earlier today.
At approximately 11:50 a.m. today, the Easton Police Department received a report of a bomb threat at the high school that was sent via Snapchat.
Several students received the Snapchat message and reported it to the principal who notified Easton Police. The building was immediately evacuated and police began a search of the building.
Students were initially moved a safe distance from the building, and attendance was taken.
At approximately 2:45 p.m., police determined that the school was safe. All students were escorted to Easton Middle School to be picked up by buses and their parents. Students and staff who needed to go back into the school were escorted inside to gather any belongings they left behind.
Students at the Richardson Olmsted School, Parkview School and Easton Middle School were put in shelter in place status following the threat, during which time classes continued as usual. Out of an abundance of caution, students were not permitted to leave their classrooms to go to other spaces in the building. No threats were made to other schools in the district.
All afternoon and evening activities in the district were cancelled.
“I am immensely proud of the coordinated efforts of our police, fire, and school departments today. Everything took place exactly as it has been planned with professionalism and precision,” Superintendent Cabral said. “Other town department colleagues were also available to assist if needed, and we are grateful beyond words. I am humbled to serve the amazing staff and students in the EPS. Each one of them rose to the occasion and worked with one another with respect and calmness.”
School will be held at Oliver Ames as scheduled tomorrow.
“We will begin processing these events at OA tomorrow,” Superintendent Cabral said. “I realize parents and students have had a stressful day, but we believe the best place for all is at school tomorrow for a regular school day. Our professional staff will be available to provide support to whomever needs it. It the best place for everyone to move forward together on this.”