News

Valley HS on heightened alert after alleged threat to shoot up school

NEW KENSINGTON, Pa. — A day after a student allegedly threatened to "shoot up" the school, classes are in session at Valley High School.

When the district learned of the threat, authorities were notified and implemented an increased police presence on and near district facilities. All district buildings are on lockdown and on heightened alert Thursday.

The alleged threat was found in an entry on the student’s personal calendar on his cellphone. The student was suspended, New Kensington-Arnold School District Superintendent John Pallone said Wednesday in a news release.

Even though there is heightened security, some parents kept their children home from school Thursday.

"I know a lot of parents didn't send their kids to school, because they didn't feel comfortable," one parent said.

A mother, who has a 14-year-old child in the eighth grade at Valley Junior-Senior High School, said she understand why some parents kept their children home, but after thinking it over, she did the opposite.

"I sent mine because I feel comfortable," she said.

She said she felt as though the school and police were on top of the situation.

"This is probably going to be the safest day of the year for them, with all the cops and everything going there, so I sent my son even though he didn't want to go," she said.

Students told Channel 11 News on Wednesday that they know the student is a junior at the high school and said it's not the first time he's made threats.

"He kind of gives me a weird sense of like he could do this. He's been bullied,” one student said.

The students who spoke with Channel 11 News said the rumored threat was also carved into a desk, and the student allegedly talked about it online.

The suspension of the student accused of making the threat is in effect pending further investigation and disciplinary action.

“It is unfortunate that the district has to deal with these types of issues that cause a disruption and distraction from the daily educational routine. However, despite this challenging event, the district will continue its mission to educate the young men and women of our communities,” Pallone said.

Stay with Channel 11 News and WPXI.com for continuing coverage.