Indy Standard

On September 20, 2024, Dr. Aleesia Johnson, Superintendent of Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), issued a safety and security update to IPS families regarding the recent influx of school threats shared via social media and text messages. This trend has been observed not only in Indianapolis but also across Marion County, the state, and the country.

Dr. Johnson emphasized that these threats disrupt the school day and create anxiety among parents, students, and staff. Additionally, they place an added strain on school-based resources such as police and security officers.

"Please know that IPS takes each and every threat seriously," Dr. Johnson stated. "In today’s society, where threats like these are more common, we treat every threat seriously until police confirm otherwise."

To date, no credible threats have been identified against any IPS schools. Dr. Johnson outlined steps for parents and guardians to assist during active threat assessments by ensuring all resources inside the school are dedicated to maintaining safety.

She also highlighted the importance of discussing with students the serious consequences that can arise from their words—whether spoken or written.

"We are committed to keeping you informed," Dr. Johnson assured families. "If any new information emerges that impacts the safety of our schools, we will communicate promptly through phone and email."

Dr. Johnson reiterated that in case of an emergency or immediate risk, calling 911 is essential.

In a subsequent message addressing a recent wave of hoax threats circulating over the past 24 hours on social media and via text messages among students, staff, and parents, Dr. Johnson confirmed there was no active threat to IPS schools.

"IPS Police have been coordinating with local law enforcement since Thursday morning," she said. Investigations have found these threats to be non-credible. The Indiana State Police arrested two non-IPS students responsible for making threats across several districts.

This trend has been seen nationwide this week with hoax threats reported in states including Indiana, Virginia, Tennessee, Minnesota, Illinois, among others.

"This is beyond agonizing for families, students, and staff," Dr. Johnson expressed. "As a parent of IPS students as well...we must treat every threat as serious until police confirm otherwise."

Dr. Johnson urged families to maintain open communication about school safety with their children while reiterating her commitment to keeping everyone informed through School Messenger (Phone and Email).

"There is no bigger priority than ensuring students and staff are in a safe learning environment," she concluded.