Update: Officials at Wallaceburg District Secondary School ​have posted an update after an alleged ‘threatening message’ was received, leading to students and staff being evacuated from the scgool on Friday, March 4, 2022.
“This afternoon (Friday, March 4), Chatham-Kent Police Service responded to Wallaceburg District Secondary School regarding an alleged threatening message referencing Wallaceburg District Secondary School,” Melissa Mallette, principal at WDSS said in a letter posted on the school website.​
“Students and staff were safely evacuated to a secondary location for dismissal and pick-up. Chatham-Kent Police Service has confirmed that they do not believe there is an imminent threat to public safety at this time and that Wallaceburg District Secondary School can reopen to students and staff on Monday, March 7, 2022. The Chatham-Kent Police Service investigation is ongoing.”
Mallette added: “We recognize that learning about this potential threat may have caused some uncertainty or is a stressful experience for students. We are encouraging students to reach out to a trusted staff member to share their thoughts and concerns. Please also know that LKDSB staff members will be available on Monday, March 7 to offer counselling supports, as needed.”
Mallette said they appreciate the efforts of the Chatham-Kent Police Service and the cooperation of LKDSB staff in the investigation.
“Student and staff safety are top priorities for the school and the LKDSB,” Mallette said.
“We will continue to work closely with Chatham-Kent Police Services to ensure a safe learning environment for everyone. Should you have any further questions, please contact the school or the Chatham-Kent Police Service.”
School board staff referred the Sydenham Current to the letter posted on the school website.
Messages to the Chatham-Kent Police Service has yet to be returned.
We’ll provide more details as they become available.
Original story: Officials at Wallaceburg District Secondary School say students and staff were evacuated on Friday, March 4, 2022 after the school was referenced in a threatening message.
“This letter is to inform you that the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) notified the Chatham-Kent Police Service today (Friday, March 4) of an alleged threatening message referencing Wallaceburg District Secondary School,” Melissa Mallette, principal at WDSS, said in a letter posted on the school website.​
“Messages like this are always concerning as we consistently prioritize your safety, and the safety of the school community.”
Mallette added: “The LKDSB and the school take alleged threats seriously and are cooperating with Chatham-Kent Police Service in its investigation. At approximately 1:30 p.m., students and staff were evacuated to a secondary location for dismissal and bus pick-up. Chatham-Kent Police Service is currently on-site.”
Mallette said in the interest of student and school safety, “we would encourage you to continue to have conversations regarding school safety and any report issues to us and/or the police.
“Should you have any questions or concerns about your child, please contact the school. Together, we will continue to support a safe school community,” Mallette added.
Cruisers were still spotted outside the school just before 4 p.m. as well.
Messages to the Lambton-Kent District School Board, Chatham-Kent Police Service and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent have yet to be returned.
We’ll provide more details as they become available.
