Security to be stepped up at Lindenhurst Middle School after threat, officials say
A written threat against Lindenhurst Middle School, slated for Monday, was found in the boys' bathroom and has prompted "additional security measures," including a planned sweep for weapons and an increased police presence, school officials said.
A student discovered the threat, written on paper, and told a teacher, who informed administrators late Tuesday afternoon, a district spokeswoman said.
School officials said the threat was against the building, but declined to say more.
Superintendent Daniel E. Giordano announced several "tentative precautions" expected to start Friday unless the culprit is found and the threat dispelled.
Students must take the contents of their lockers home on Friday, when administrators will then sweep the building and additional security will be posted, he wrote in a message posted on the district website.
The school will be on lockdown after classes Friday and all weekend, with all building activities canceled during the weekend and Friday and Monday nights, Giordano said. Outside activities will go on, but no one will be allowed into the building, officials said.
On Monday, all bags will be inspected and Suffolk police officers will be posted at the school all day, along with extra security guards, the superintendent said.
Administrators and security will arrive early and students will be able to get into the school through the front or west wing, and the side or south wing, which is the main office entrance, he said.
Students' hall passes also will be restricted, he said.
"Because of these proactive efforts, Lindenhurst Middle School continues to be a safe place for our students," Giordano wrote. "The safety and security of our students is our top priority and we will continue to communicate any important information with the community."
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