Rumors cancel classes, prompt student searches. - 13abc.com Toledo (OH) News, Weather and Sports

Rumors cancel classes, prompt student searches.

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MONROE, Mich. -

Local schools systems are dealing with social media rumors of school violence on Friday. One has canceled classes, another is searching students and Washington Local schools is asking people not to spread rumors.

Monroe Public Schools are canceling Friday classes after rumors circulating on social media raised concern with parents and students.

In a statement, district spokesperson Robert Vergiels said that the district had been made aware of a number of social media rumors regarding school safety.

He said that every rumor had been investigated and nothing was substantiated. But due to the anxiety and disruptions caused by the rumors and fears that parents would keep students home on Friday, they had decided to cancel classes for Friday, December 21.

School offices will be open throughout the end of their regular working day on Friday.  The district does not know if the missed instructional day will need to be made up later until they have a decision from the State of Michigan.

Vergiels wished everyone a safe and peaceful holiday break.

Washington Local Schools also addressed rumors of a possible incident of Friday in a letter to parents. They assured families that no Washington Local school or employee had received a threat. They said the rumors appear to be unfounded and without merit.

Superintendent Patrick Hickey assured parents that the school had security measures in place and asked that people "Report, don't spread." their concerns. He urged parents and students to share any information they have with school administrators or teachers and not repeat rumors.

Springfield Schools Superintendent Kathryn Hott said that administrators have been chasing rumors all week long with some kids allegedly posting on Facebook that they're bringing guns to school on Friday. She believes these rumors stem from kids wanting the day off.

But to be cautious, officials will be checking backpacks and jackets as the students come to school on Friday.

Hott says they've narrowed the rumors down to just a few kids who seem to keep them going and these students who started the rumors could face disciplinary action.  The school will be open tomorrow, but have told parents that they can keep kids home if they're uncomfortable. But that missed day will count as an unexcused absence.

She says despite reports, the school is not on lockdown, the doors will be locked and a doorbell system is in place as usual.

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