As you know, the recent social media threats made to a Scottsdale school and many others around the nation have been frightening and disruptive. As of this morning, Scottsdale and Phoenix police have arrested four juveniles and confirm that these local threats were hoaxes.
We recognize these incidents are quite frustrating for schools, students, staff and parents, but we must take every threat seriously. These threats are a reminder to us all of the dangers associated with social media.
The Scottsdale Police Department wants to make it clear: this type of threatening behavior is not a joke - it is a felony.
Consequences: Although additional federal offenses may be considered and investigated by the FBI, the most common Arizona State Criminal Codes violated are Hoax, a Class 4 felony; Disruption of an educational facility, a Class 6 felony; and threatening and intimidating, a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Additionally, students determined to have been involved are subject to school discipline, including suspension or expulsion.
Advice:
1) Talk to your student(s) about social media, its appropriate use and the possible life-changing consequences of what he/she shares.
2) Monitor your student’s social media, and let them know that job and college prospects could be jeopardized.
3) Don’t invite everyone to your network.
4) Don’t post, repost, ‘like’ or ‘favorite’ any inappropriate photos or messages.
5) Report any questionable, obscene or inflammatory posts or comments.
6) Report anything that may be construed as bullying, intimidation, harassment or other threats of violence to any adult on campus.
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office addresses internet safety with publications in English and Spanish, specifically designed to educate parents. https://www.azag.gov/internet-safety.
We appreciate your support and are confident that together, we can keep Scottsdale schools safe for teaching and learning.
Sincerely,
Ann Achtziger
Interim Principal
Saguaro High School
Scottsdale Unified School District
Click here to view the original letter. Click here to view the letter she sent out yesterday.
