Montrose Area school officials are still investigating numerous reports received by the district last week that a student plans to bring a weapon to the high school Friday.
Superintendent Michael Ognosky said state police were contacted immediately with the information.
In a recorded message sent out to parents in the district over the weekend, Mr. Ognosky said, "In light of the terrible tragedy in Connecticut on Friday please be assured we will take all measures to ensure the safety of our students."
Initial reports about the potential of a weapon being brought to the school happened before the mass murder at a Newtown, Conn., elementary school on Friday.
Mr. Ognosky said the police met with the student named in the reports. Police examined the juvenile's social media accounts and conducted a 3½-hour interview with the youth and his parents. The police investigation yielded no evidence supporting the reports, Mr. Ognosky said.
At the high school, about 50 students have been interviewed regarding the allegations, but, the superintendent said, as of Monday morning, he still was not able to identify the root of the rumors. He said the district is continuing its investigation into the matter. The superintendent also said state police have indicated they will maintain a physical presence at the school on Friday.
Anyone with information regarding the matter is asked to contact Mr. Ognosky at 278-6298.
The message sent out by the superintendent, along with the promise of a police presence, has not been enough to assuage the fears of some parents.
Many have indicated they don't plan to send their children to school on Friday.
Mr. Ognosky said the district would be looking into the security procedures and protocols in place for people attempting to gain access to the schools.
Contact the writer: swilson@ independentweekender.com