News Summary
Classes were canceled at three schools in Idaho Falls due to unfounded rumors about gun threats. The decision was made as a precaution after a comment made by a student raised concerns. Police investigated further rumors from a school event but found no credible threats. Classes resumed the next day with support measures in place for students affected by the situation. The Emotion Bowl event will continue with increased security to ensure safety.
Idaho Falls – Classes were canceled at Skyline High School, Eagle Rock Middle School, and Ethel Boyes Elementary in Idaho Falls on Thursday due to unfounded rumors of gun threats. The decision was made as a precautionary measure to safeguard the students and staff after a comment made by a student the night before prompted concern among the school community.
The initial threat was reported to school authorities after a student mentioned a gun-related comment on Wednesday night. Although this was brought to the attention of the school resource officer, it was determined that the threat was noncredible. As a result, Superintendent Karla LaOrange confirmed that the student responsible for the comment would face disciplinary action according to the district’s board policy.
A separate rumor regarding a vehicle possibly containing someone with a gun emerged during a school dance on the same evening, which further heightened fears among parents and staff members. The Idaho Falls Police Department has since launched an investigation into this report. Although there were intense concerns at the time, investigators later clarified that no real gun was found and that the rumors were unfounded.
Superintendent LaOrange emphasized the school district’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for students and staff. She expressed appreciation for the cooperation of families throughout the situation, acknowledging the worry caused by the rumors. It was confirmed that the origin of the initial threat stemmed from students of a rival high school who were engaging in a prank involving Orbeez guns, which are toy guns that shoot water beads.
Additional context emerged when it was reported that a student had seen a car with individuals wearing ski masks. This incident turned out to be associated with the same prank related to the Emotion Bowl week, a significant sports event in Idaho Falls. The inquiry by authorities confirmed there was no real danger, as no actual firearm was involved in either rumor.
Despite the panic caused by the rumors, classes resumed the following day for elementary students, while middle and high school students returned under an intervention schedule. This allowed educators to provide necessary support to students who might have been affected by the previous day’s events.
The previously scheduled Emotion Bowl event on Friday will proceed as planned, albeit under heightened security measures. Law enforcement has assured the public of increased police presence to further ensure safety during the festivities surrounding this local sports event.
As the situation has unfolded, the Idaho Falls School District remains committed to addressing safety concerns promptly and efficiently, ensuring that students can continue their education without undue anxiety related to unfounded threats.
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Additional Resources
- East Idaho News
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Idaho News
- Google Search: Idaho Falls school gun threat
- Local News 8
- Google Scholar: School Safety Gun Threats
- AOL News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Safety
- Idaho State Journal
- Google News: Idaho Falls school safety
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