Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

This is a message that parents received from SOMERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT

Dear SPS Parents/Guardians,
 
Earlier today, we were made aware of a troubling TikTok Challenge that has been shared widely this week across the country. The post threatens gun violence in schools across the country on Friday, December 17. The post has been circulating nationally and locally.

 
While there is no indication that this is a credible threat and there has not been any specific threat to our district, we are taking additional precautions tomorrow. We have been in communication with the Somerville Police Department and will have a police patrol car stationed outside of the high school in the concourse all day tomorrow. We will also have an increased police presence through directed patrol cars around all of our schools during the school day. We will bring students into the buildings as they arrive in the morning, and will hold all recess and lunches indoors tomorrow.
We know these types of posts can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for our students, families and staff. We encourage you to monitor your children’s social media activity and to speak with them about safe and proper behavior online. 
As we always suggest, if you or your child become aware of any potential threat posted to social media or anywhere else, please notify a school staff member, a trusted adult, or the Somerville Police Department immediately.
As always, thank you for your partnership as we work to ensure a safe, secure, and positive learning environment for our students and staff.
Sincerely,
 
Mary Skipper, Superintendent