Central Springs Schools Go Virtual After Social Media Threat

A north Iowa school district has moved to virtual classes to start the week following a social media threat.

In a Facebook post late Sunday, Central Springs Superintendent Darwin Lehmann said, “Earlier today, school administrators became aware of a concerning social media post in regards to our school district. Local law enforcement was immediately contacted and are partnering with us in the investigation.”

The post adds that, “Local law enforcement does not perceive this as a viable threat at this time, but out of an abundance of caution, we have made the difficult decision to cancel school for Monday, January 15, 2024, face-to-face and make it an e-learning day.  This will allow us to continue to investigate.”

Lehman also says, “We will not tolerate threats (real or perceived) of any kind, especially when they disrupt the school day and result in countless hours of work to determine their validity.  We are committed to the safety of our students and staff above all else.”

In an updated statement posted at about 11 am Monday, Lehman notified the public “that law enforcement and the school district, with the support of diligent students, staff, families, and citizens who saw something and said something, have determined the source behind yesterday’s (01.14) concerning social media posts.”

He added that “law enforcement maintains there is not a threat to the district” and “this is also an opportunity to remind everyone that we take threats of any nature seriously; if you see something harmful, do something helpful.”

Parents are advised to call the Superintendent’s office (641-454-2211) or your student’s building principal with any questions or concerns.