Nationwide Social Media Threat Message (12/17)

Greetings,

This message is being shared in the interest of transparency. The letter below references a general threat made toward all US schools via rumors on TikTok. At this time, law enforcement has determined this is not a credible threat in our area.  This letter is being sent out to all parents and the communities in the GWAEA.  The Linn County Sheriff's department is aware of the threat, will increase its presence, and will be ready to act if we do have something happen. Out of an abundance of caution, our school will be in close contact with law enforcement throughout the day on Friday. We recognize that this message may generate conversations and concerns among students and staff. As much as possible, our intention is to continue with a normal school day on Friday.  Springville has not received any threats!

Thank you for your support and efforts regarding this situation, and if you have any questions, feel free to let the principals or me know. Thanks and have a good rest of the day. 

Pat Hocking, Superintendent

Subject: Nationwide Social Media Threat: A Joint Message from Grant Wood AEA service area schools

Springville Families and Staff,

Our school districts recently learned of an anonymous, nationwide threat against schools that is being shared on social media outlets such as TikTok. The general threat toward all U.S. schools declares Friday, Dec. 17, as “American School Shooting Day.” The posts warn about the possibility of nationwide shootings or bomb threats associated with this day.  

We have partnered with local law enforcement to vigilantly investigate whether there are any local connections to these social media posts. At this time, law enforcement has not acquired any evidence that would deem these threats as credible in our area. Out of an abundance of caution, our schools will be in close contact with law enforcement throughout the day on Friday. 

Please take this opportunity to talk with your students about the appropriate use of social media, and the seriousness and resulting consequences of making any kind of threat. Encourage your students to speak with you or an adult at school if they see or hear something so immediate action can be taken. In addition, if anyone in our community sees something suspicious, please report it to the school immediately or call local law enforcement.

We appreciate your support and partnership. 

1. Linn-Mar Community School District

2. Central City Community School District

3. College Community School District

4. Mount Vernon Community Schools

5. Solon Community Schools 

6. Cedar Rapids Community School District

7. Marion Independent School District

8. Midland Community School District

9. Center Point-Urbana Community School District

10. Highland Community School District

11. Alburnett Community Schools

12. Clear Creek Amana Community School District

13. Williamsburg Community School District

14. Iowa City Community School District

15. Xavier Catholic Schools

16. BGM Community School District

17. HLV Community School District

18. Regina Catholic Education Center

19. Center Point-Urbana CSD

20. Mid-Prairie Community School District

21. Lone Tree Community School District

22. North Cedar Community School District

23. Olin Consolidated School District

24. West Branch Community Schools

25. North Linn Community School District

26. Tipton Community School District

27. Lisbon Community School District

28. Springville Community School District

29. Anamosa Community School District

30. Washington Community School District