Schools

Following Rumors of Violence, HSD Schools Let Out Safely for Christmas Holiday

Hazelwood School District received reports from parents of rumors of threats of possible violence, which led the district to be on high alert.

It has been a week for the history books for the Hazelwood School District.

The victims and community of Newtown, Conn. were warm on the hearts of students and staff when the district made headlines of its own.

First, a bullet was found randomly laying on the floor at Hazelwood West Middle School. The district then met about its .

Find out what's happening in Hazelwoodwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The week then ended with the district on high alert after rumors of some violence occurring on Friday caught wind.

"As you know, the tragedy in Newtown has created anxiety in people across the country." Diana Gulotta, superintendent for communications said in an email to parents. "When a tragedy like this occurs, it is not uncommon for rumors to circulate regarding other incidents."

HSD received reports from parents of rumors of threats of possible violence that was supposed to have happened Friday. Although HSD had no indication that there was a real threat, the district still took precautions including:

Find out what's happening in Hazelwoodwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • limiting hall passes
  • Increasing supervision by staff in all areas of the school
  • Increased supervision by security officers and police
  • And, checking of all exterior doors every 15 minutes.

Also, at the high school level, book bags were not permitted on campus.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Hazelwood