Dec 9, 2016 2 min read

A day after receiving threats, two Washington County schools reopened to students and staff Friday.

McGuffey students were dismissed early Thursday after a written threat was found in a restroom in the middle/high school. At Charleroi Middle School, a “hit list” with four to six student names was found in a hallway, prompting the district to increase security Friday.

“Kids are pretty resilient,” said Charleroi Superintendent Edward Zelich. “Us parents, me included, and educators, we worry. But I just walked by many of the classes, and they’re back to normal, at full gear.”

Zelich sent a letter home to parents and guardians Thursday, and administrators met with students and families who were directly involved. The principal met with the students whose names were on the list to assure them they would be safe.

Charleroi Regional police are involved in the discipline of two students responsible for creating the list, Zelich said, and their parents were called in.

“(The students) claim that it was a joke, but you have to take everything seriously,” said Zelich. “There is disciplinary action. Most importantly, we’re in touch with mental health agencies and therapeutic support to further analyze their needs.”

Zelich said the collaboration between the district and police ensures these types of events are handled effectively and efficiently. School Resource Officer Ryan Brand was able to assess the situation quickly once staff were notified of the list.

Another resource to combat threats is the district’s 24-hour Safe School Helpline, 1-800-418-6423 ext. 359, where people can anonymously report any concerns about safety.

“We’re trying to make something positive out of this very negative thing,” Zelich said.

According to a news release from McGuffey Superintendent Erica L. Kolat, staff discovered the threat around noon Thursday, and the school went into lockdown. State police, Donegal police and district officers assisted with an early dismissal of all district students.

According to Kolat, the building was swept twice, including once with a K-9 unit. No weapons were found.

When asked if disciplinary action was taken, Kolat responded that administrators are continuing to work with law enforcement to investigate. She declined to provide information about the nature of the threat.