Threat Directed Toward SGCHS

October 20, 2023 -

Subject: Urgent Update: Copycat Threats at Memorial Composite High School and Spruce Grove Composite High School

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We wanted to provide an important update regarding recent developments at both Memorial Composite High School (MCHS) in Stony Plain and Spruce Grove Composite High School (SGCHS).

As you may be aware, PSD recently shared with Memorial Composite High School families a concerning incident where an anonymous threat was discovered at MCHS after school on Wednesday, October 18. While the threat was assessed as low in credibility, we take all such matters seriously and prioritize the safety and well-being of our students and staff.

Unfortunately, we must now address a new and troubling trend that has emerged in the wake of the initial incident. Rumours of copycat threats have surfaced, with the most recent occurring on Friday, October 20th, directed towards Spruce Grove Composite High School. We want to stress that these rumours are being investigated with the utmost urgency and are being treated with the utmost seriousness.

It is crucial to understand that individuals who engage in copycat behavior, thinking they will receive attention or notoriety for their actions, are only causing heightened anxiety within our school communities and the general public. Moreover, we want to emphasize that making threats such as these is a serious crime with severe consequences.

We are actively cooperating with law enforcement agencies to investigate these threats thoroughly. In response to the recent threat at Spruce Grove Composite High School, an increased RCMP presence will be visible at the school out of an abundance of caution.

Our dedicated staff members are continually briefed on the situation, and we are working closely with them to ensure the safety and security of our students. At this time, we do not anticipate any procedural changes, but rest assured, we remain vigilant in our efforts to keep our schools safe.

We encourage all members of our school communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or concerning information promptly. If you have any information that might assist with these investigations, please do not hesitate to contact the school administration, the RCMP, or Crime Stoppers.

For a better understanding of our Violent/Threat Risk Assessment processes and the measures in place to ensure the safety of our students, we invite you to visit the following resources:

For more on our Violent/Threat Risk Assessment processes, please read this news item:

https://www.psd.ca/division/news/post/fair-notice-violent-threat-risk-assessment

Or visit the PSD website at:

https://www.psd.ca/schools/student-safety/violence-threat-risk-assessment-vtra

We understand that these developments may cause concern and anxiety among our students and families, and we want to assure you that we are doing everything in our power to address these threats and maintain a safe learning environment. Your support and cooperation are greatly appreciated as we navigate these challenging circumstances.

We will continue to keep you updated as new information becomes available. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Together, we can work towards ensuring the safety and well-being of our school communities.

To provide information about any crime:

Call the Crimestoppers/Edmonton Police Non-emergency Line: 780-423-4567
Call Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-8477
Submit your tip safely and securely online.

Sincerely,

Cheryl Otto, Principal
Spruce Grove Composite High School