Skokie School District 73½ closed Oliver McCracken Middle School on Oct 22 because of anonymous threats delivered over Instagram, the Chicago Tribune reports. Classes were also cancelled on Oct 23 because the investigation was still in progress, according to the school’s website.
WLS-TV (ABC affiliate) and the school district itself have confirmed the reports. Principal Allison Stein wrote the following letter Wednesday to caregivers:
We are continuing to partner with the Skokie Police Department as they investigate a series of inappropriate and threatening Instagram posts that were shared with some of our students. The Skokie Police Department is working with federal authorities, and they have shared information about their investigation at www.skokie.org.
Our intent was to send families a comprehensive update earlier today, including the status of the investigation, our re-entry plan for tomorrow, our arrangements for reviewing internet safety and digital citizenship with students, as well as resources to support you and your child at home. Unfortunately, we are unable to finalize our plans for tomorrow due to the present status of the investigation. All families will receive notification from the Superintendent’s office later this evening about our plans for student attendance tomorrow.
We appreciate the phone calls and emails from both parents and students who have shared information, including screen shots from Instagram, with us. We have shared this communication with the Skokie Police Department, and these reports are now part of their ongoing investigation. While our school closing has received media coverage, it is important to remember that the Skokie Police Department is the authoritative source for this investigation. We will continue to share their press releases with you, as they are posted, so that you have accurate information.
Please review the attached resources, which detail internet safety guidelines and questions for families, as well as suggestions for creating a positive digital culture in your home. Also attached is an article from the National Association of School Psychologists, which includes valuable tips for parents speaking with their children about safety and feelings of fear.
Student and staff safety is our first priority. We will continue to fully cooperate with the Skokie Police Department in their ongoing efforts, and we thank you for partnering with us to ensure a safe learning environment.
We applaud the decision to protect children and adults at McCracken Middle School. Additional resources:
- Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers
- Internet (Social Media) Safety: Tips for Parents and Families
Police need help to solve this crime and try to prevent any future occurrence. If you may have information to share regarding any inappropriate Instagram posts, please contact a school administrator or the Skokie Police Department at their non-emergency number, (847) 982-5900, or the 24-hour automated crime tip hotline at (847) 933-TIPS.