WATAUGA COUNTY, N.C. — The Boone Police Department will have an increased police presence at Watauga High School on Wednesday in response to rumored threats of violence at the school, police say.
The police department sent a notice of the increased presence Tuesday evening, and parents of high school students also reported receiving calls from the school system.
A statement on the WHS website said this: "A few of our high school students received threats through a text message from an unknown source. Watauga High School was not mentioned in the threat, but since those threatened are students at the high school, Boone Police will provide an increased presence at the school to ensure there is no danger to any student or staff member. The increased police presence will be maintained through the remainder of this week."
Watauga High School students will be out on spring break next week.
"These actions are purely precautionary," the statement continued. "We emphasize that the school itself was not mentioned in the threats. We feel strongly that today will be one of the safest day of the year at Watauga High School."
The information from the Boone Police Department echoed the same message of precaution.
"The Boone Police Department, in conjunction with Watauga High School administrators, have decided to take a proactive stance to ensure the safety of our children," said the notice from the police department.
Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to attend school as usual but remain vigilant for anything out of the ordinary, according to the police department. If suspicious activity is observed, contact the Boone Police Department at (828) 268-6900 or 911 in an emergency.
Anyone with further information is asked to call Boone Police Department.