Wallaceburg's high school will not be open to students on Friday due to a possible threat.
The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) made the decision to close Wallaceburg District Secondary School on the advice of the Chatham-Kent Police Service after a note was found at the school at the end of the day on Thursday.
“Student and staff safety [is] a top priority for the LKDSB and we follow the direction of local police regarding matters of school safety,” said Director Jim Costello in a news release.
The exact details of the threat have not been released, but police said more information will be released as it becomes available.
"I can ensure everyone that we are taking the contents of this note very seriously," said Constable Renee Cowell in a release. "Officers will be in Wallaceburg [Friday] to further investigate the matter in an effort to identify the person responsible."
At this time, police believe the reported threat is an isolated incident and that there is no imminent threat to public safety. Police continue to investigate the incident and will be at the school on March 4 when the school reopens to students and staff.
Officials with the LKDSB said members of their psychological services team, as well as school-based supports, will be available to speak with students.
“We appreciate the efforts of the Chatham-Kent Police Service and the cooperation of LKDSB staff in the investigation,” said Director Jim Costello in a statement. “We understand situations like these can cause uncertainty in the community, however, the LKDSB remains committed to keeping student and staff safety as a top priority. We will continue to work with police on this investigation.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Derek Shaw at dereks@chatham-kent.ca or 519-358-4136. Anonymous callers can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward.