Rocket Families,
At Rochester Schools, our top priority is the safety of our students, faculty, and staff. We always want to be as proactive as possible in regards to our campus safety. To that end, I am providing the following information to keep everyone informed about a situation on social media that is impacting schools across the country this week.
Yesterday afternoon, our district was made aware of a TikTok post circulating nationwide referencing “school shooting and bomb threats for every school in the USA even elementary” that will supposedly take place this Friday, December 17, 2021. The original post is general and not directed at a specific school. So far, the origins of this video are unknown and there is no indication it was generated locally.
The Illinois Statewide Terrorism and Intelligence Center (STIC) shared the information with our school administration, school resource officers, and local law enforcement. Please know that STIC, along with our district administration and local police departments, will continue to monitor this situation.
Remember, if you or your children feel uncomfortable about something you read, hear or see, do not hesitate to report it to school officials, a school resource officer, and/or law enforcement. Students and families may also access help or report concerns anonymously to our Safe2Help hotline.
Safe2Help is a 24/7 program for students, staff, and families to share school safety issues, find resources to get help and find encouragement to help others. Anyone can call to talk to a trained staff member about abuse, bullying, depression, self-injury, or suicidal thoughts for themselves or other students. You can access Safe2Help by calling 844-4-SAFEIL, texting SAFE2(72332), or emailing help@safe2helpIL.com. School safety is a shared concern.
Everyone working together can continue to ensure a safe and supportive environment throughout Rochester Schools.
Be the Difference,
Dan W. Cox, Superintendent