LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Cabot School District is heightening security and allowing students to stay home without penalty after a threat was made targeting September 11.
According to reports, the district emailed parents overnight about a scribbled note found in a bathroom at Cabot High School yesterday, stating:
"The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority. Our Cabot School Police Department is working closely with the Cabot Police Department, the Lonoke County Sheriff's Office, and Ward Police to ensure an increased presence in and around our schools in the coming days.
We take all threats seriously. Please be aware that any threat made against our students or staff will result in severe consequences, including a recommendation for expulsion from the Cabot School District and a referral to law enforcement for felony charges."
The note made a threat against Cabot schools, specifically targeting 8 a.m. on September 11. However, the note does not single out a particular Cabot school.
The district stated that there will be an increased presence of law enforcement around Cabot schools in the coming days.
Since many parents are choosing to keep their kids home from school today, the district sent a follow-up e-mail that students will not be penalized for not coming to class.
For everyone else, schools will operate on a regular schedule today.
The City of Lonoke Police Department issued the following statement:
"The Lonoke Police Department wants to assure all parents, students, and staff that the safety of our schools is our top priority. In response to potential threats made within the Cabot School District, we will have extra officers present at schools across the district today. They are working closely with school administrators to ensure a secure environment for everyone.
Please know that this is a precautionary measure, and we are taking every step necessary to keep our schools safe. We encourage you to remain calm, and if you see anything suspicious or have concerns, don't hesitate to report it.
Our children’s safety is paramount, and we thank our officers for their dedication and vigilance."
Anyone with information related to this threat has been urged to contact law enforcement or a school district administrator.
