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Bethel Park school instituting new security policies after threats found

Bethel Park School District is changing policies, putting in a temporary "backpack ban" and limiting bathroom access at the high school next week.

The move comes after someone discovered threatening messages inside the school.

An email was sent out to parents at Bethel Park High School, flagged as important.

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District officials tell Channel 11 written threats found inside of Bethel Park High School led to Monday’s changes.

"I'm concerned, but I think Bethel will do the right thing," said Judy Phillips, whose granddaughter goes to the school.

District officials say they are practicing extreme caution after finding written threats of violence allegedly planned for Oct. 12 and 16.

Bethel Park Police say they weren't credible. However, district officials are ramping up security measures.

"I'm glad they're taking precautions for the sake of the kids and my granddaughter,” Phillips said.

"Not that worried about it,” said parent Cindy Fabus. “I think our school officials and police department handles these things well."

Among the changes: Students can now only bring necessary bags and equipment for after school activities. No backpacks are allowed on Oct. 12 or 16.

"He'll just limit what he takes and just follow all the protocol," Fabus said.

And the one people are talking about the most: student restroom use will be limited. They will only be allowed to go during class time, one student at a time.

They won't be allowed to use the bathrooms during class changes.

"I think they might need more personnel in regards to the bathroom situation,” Phillips said. “I mean, that's going to take a lot of teaching time away from the teachers."

District officials say, "as always, the safety of our students and staff remains our number one priority."

Bethel Park police and the district will also do unannounced building sweeps. All of these changes go into effect on Monday.

 

Cox Media Group

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