Bomb threats at Jericho schools reported

People entering Jericho Middle School and Jericho High School will be screened and have their bags checked Monday as a security precaution stemming from a bomb threat, according to a letter from the school district sent to parents Sunday.

In the letter, Henry L. Grishman, superinttendent of the Jericho Union Free School District, advises parents that several high school students "received emails and text messages regarding a possible bomb threat" at both schools.

"We believe we have identified the source of these messages and are working closely with Nassau County Police and our school attorneys," Grishman wrote.

A Nassau police spokesman acknowledged the investigation but could not comment further, citing its continuing nature.

Grishman noted to parents that the district is "taking these threats seriously" and searched and cleared the building Sunday. Additional security will remain in place at the school, according to the letter, and those entering both schools "will be screened and all bags (backpacks, purses, etc.) will be checked."

District officials could not be reached Sunday for further comment.