December 11, 2023
Dear Bedford Parents, Staff, and Community:
It was reported last evening that a number of school districts throughout the state of Ohio were affected by reports of false threats targeting local school districts. The Ohio State Police with support from the FBI have investigated and determined that the threats were not credible and most likely sent as “swatting” attempts.
[Swatting incidents – are threats made to schools or public offices with the purpose of triggering a response by police and first responders to create fear and panic throughout communities and disrupt first responder agencies. States across the U.S. have experienced similar mass swatting attempts in recent months.]
While BPS did not experience this issue directly, we know many of our staff and families may be understandably concerned about school safety. As a reminder, I want to take a moment to share with you that the district works very closely with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Michigan State Police regarding school safety concerns. BPS continues to maintain two active-duty MCSO Deputies within our district. If there were ever to be an active investigation concerning the safety of our BPS schools, timely and consistent communications would be sent by both my office and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
We continue to encourage our students and school community to report anything that could be a threat to school safety. Lastly, I’m asking that you take this opportunity to help me in reminding all students:
• It is never appropriate to joke about weapons or make a claim of violence within a school setting. There are extreme and permanent consequences legally and through the district for any student who takes part in threats (whether jokingly or not).
• If you hear or see something that causes concern to you, the first thing you should do is contact an adult. Once you have reported the issue/concern please do not continue discussing with others.
• If you share this concerning item electronically (social media) or otherwise with other students, you risk inciting fear and possibly chaos that distracts from the learning/operation of the school.
• If you feel the need to continue discussing this because it is on your mind, we have counselors on staff who can talk about it with you.
Thank you again for your cooperation and support,
Carl Shultz, PhD
Superintendent