Dear LPS Families and Staff:
We want to inform you that Arapahoe High School received a voicemail this morning from a blocked phone number of a threat that did not name Arapahoe High School specifically. Law enforcement and LPS Security investigated thoroughly and determined the threat was not credible. We have learned through the Colorado Department of Public Safety that multiple districts in Colorado received similar threats today.
We take all threats seriously and work thoroughly to ensure the safety of students and staff. Out of an abundance of caution, Arapahoe’s start time was adjusted to ensure safety within the building. Students, staff, and families were notified of this change via text message and email in accordance with our school safety communication protocols.
We followed our district protocol when we received the threat and collaborated closely with the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office, district security, and building administration. The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority. We cannot succumb to the acts of others who are trying to instill fear in our students, staff, and community.
We want to thank the staff at Powell Middle School for helping supervise Arapahoe High School students who were on the bus and headed to school when the decision to delay Arapahoe’s start time was made. This is a perfect example of how the LPS community never fails to step in to support one another.
Disruptions like this can be alarming and scary. You can find resources for how to talk about difficult topics on the LPS Mental Health Resources page.
Please also remind your students to be cautious about what they read or see on social media, which can exacerbate situations like this by spreading misinformation. For example, there was a threatening post on Snapchat that many students have seen today. Arapahoe County Deputies have told us the post is old and is being recirculated to capitalize on current emotions and elicit fear. Law enforcement is investigating this post. If your student has a concern or any specific information on who is posting this particular photo, please have them contact a counselor, administrator, or SRO immediately. If you or your child encounter any information that raises concerns, please follow guidance on our Report a Concern page.
Thank you for your partnership as we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of the LPS community.
Sincerely,
Todd Lambert
Superintendent