POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Polk County Public Schools shared an update on measures and efforts they're taking in the wake of recent online threats.
In a statement sent to students, families and community members on Wednesday, Superintendent Frederick Heid recapped some of the existing safety and security strategies at schools in the district:
- Fencing and Gates
- Security Cameras
- Raptor System
- Guardians and School Resource Officers
- Random Searches and Wanding
- School Bus Stop Arm Cameras
- Weapons Detection Canine Unit
He added that any threat, regardless of intent, will result in "severe consequences," including arrest, restitution for security costs and expulsion.
"We strongly urge you to have a serious discussion with your child about the gravity of making threats, even if intended as a joke," Superintendent Heid said in the release. "A single poor decision can result in lifelong consequences, not only for the individual involved but for our entire school community."
According to the statement, the school district is continuing to explore and implement measures as needed, which are "conducive to learning, and focused on student success."
