Leon County schools have seen a rash of safety incidents and a surge of tips and rumors about potential school violence. It's an issue school officials and law enforcement alike say they're taking very seriously.
On Monday of this week, a Godby High School student had a gun in his backpack. That same day, a Leon High School student was arrested after sending a threatening message to another student. Friday police arrested a different Leon High School student after the FBI warned officials the student had sent a Snapchat message that threatened school violence. The day before that, a 13-year-old Griffin Middle School student brought a loaded handgun and what officials say was likely cocaine to school.
Last week, officials say they received more than 500 tips about potential threats to local schools. Officials say most of those tips were not connected to a credible threat. But rumors and fear caused many kids to miss school.
During a press conference late last week, Sheriff Walt McNeil told parents and community members he's taking all tips and threats seriously.
“You should know as parents, these are really serious things that we’re doing in terms of social media and the impact it’s having on our community," McNeil said. "So it’s imperative, parents, that you understand that we will have a zero tolerance as it relates to threats that are made to our schools by whomever are making those threats, adults or children.”
But Superintendent Rocky Hanna assured parents officials are taking necessary steps to ensure kids are safe. He said recent rumors spread online should not keep kids out of school.
“But again parents, your children are safe," Hanna said. "I promise you they’re safe. And when we start not sending kids to school because of these fears then the bad guys win. So the people that are stoking these fears in you, I can assure you that your students are safe each and every day.”
Leon County isn't alone. Threats and reports of possible school violence are on the rise across the country following a deadly school shooting earlier this month in Winder, Georgia. Governor Ron DeSantis addressed the issue during a press conference Monday. He said he's confident each Florida school district is doing what it takes to keep their students safe.
In a press release the Leon County Sheriff's Office wrote: "Parents and guardians are urged to have open and candid discussions with their children regarding the importance of adhering to the district's zero tolerance policy for weapons on campus. Ensuring that students understand the gravity of this matter and the potential consequences is vital in maintaining a safe and secure school environment."
Concerns about school safety can be reported through the FortifyFL app or by calling 850-922-KIDS.
