‘Enhanced security’ in effect at Oceanway Middle, Landmark Middle due to social media threat

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Two Duval County middle schools on Monday were “implementing enhanced security procedures” due to a social media threat “to conduct a shooting” at the schools, according to messages from the schools’ principals that were sent to parents.

A message from Oceanway Middle School principal Elizabeth Stansel said metal detectors would be in use and student belongings would be searched.

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Another message from Landmark Middle School principal Dr. Cicely Tyson-White said the same procedures would be in effect at that school.

Here is the full message sent from Stansel to families on Sunday:

Communication to Families

“Good morning, Oceanway Middle School families. This is Principal Stansel calling. I apologize for interrupting your evening, but I know you will want to be informed of this situation.

“We have been informed that someone has posted a message on social media threatening to conduct a shooting at our school. Law enforcement is currently investigating this threat, and we will be implementing enhanced security procedures tomorrow morning. These procedures will include the use of our metal detectors and search of student belongings as they enter the school. Again, as a result of this threatening post, we will implement enhanced security procedures tomorrow morning upon school entry.

“As you know, we take all threats seriously, and we will take appropriate steps to maintain a safe and secure campus for students and staff. I will also keep you updated if we receive any further information. Thanks for your cooperation as we work through this situation, and again, I will update you if any further information becomes available. Good-bye.”

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Here is the full message from Tyson-White to parents:

Communication to Families

“Hello Landmark Middle School families. This is Principal Tyson-White calling. I apologize for interrupting your evening, but I know you will want to be aware of this situation.

“We have been informed that someone has posted a message on social media threatening to conduct a shooting at our school. Law enforcement is currently investigating this threat, and we will be implementing enhanced security procedures tomorrow morning. These procedures will include the use of our metal detectors and search of student belongings as they enter the school. Again, as a result of this threatening post, we will implement enhanced security procedures tomorrow morning upon school entry. As you know, we take all threats seriously, and we will take appropriate steps to maintain a safe and secure campus for students and staff. I will also keep you updated if we receive any further information. Thanks for your cooperation as we work through this situation, and again, I will update you if any further information becomes available. Good-bye.”

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