Classes Canceled at Idaho Falls Schools Due to Gun Threats

News Summary

Classes were canceled at Skyline High School, Eagle Rock Middle School, and Ethel Boyes Elementary in Idaho Falls following a gun threat comment made by a student. The school district prioritized safety, later determining the threat was noncredible. Disciplinary action is expected against the student. Rumors about a suspicious vehicle at a school dance spurred an investigation by local police. The incident underscores the importance of safety and communication within school communities, with classes resuming under special interventions the next day.

Idaho Falls – Classes were canceled at Skyline High School, Eagle Rock Middle School, and Ethel Boyes Elementary on Thursday due to potential gun threats that surfaced the previous night. This decision, taken as a precautionary measure to prioritize the safety of students and staff, came after a student allegedly made a comment regarding a gun threat.

The Idaho Falls School District 91 confirmed that the student’s comment was reported to the school resource officer and later determined to be noncredible. As a result, disciplinary action in accordance with board policy is expected to be taken against the student responsible for the comment.

In a separate incident, a rumor circulated during a school dance about a suspicious vehicle possibly containing someone with a gun. In response to this report, the Idaho Falls Police Department has initiated an investigation to address the concerns raised by the community.

Superintendent Karla LaOrange stated that the decision to cancel classes was made to ensure students’ and staff members’ safety during this unsettling time. The district expressed appreciation for the cooperation and understanding shown by families while addressing the situation.

Investigators later determined that the original rumor about threats could be traced back to students from a rival high school engaging in a prank involving Orbeez guns. A report regarding a vehicle with individuals wearing ski masks was linked to this prank during the Emotion Bowl week festivities, and law enforcement confirmed that no actual firearms were involved.

Following the evaluation of the threats, classes were able to resume the following day for elementary school students, while middle and high school students returned under a special intervention schedule to ensure a smooth transition back to the classroom environment.

While the situation has been addressed, the Emotion Bowl event, scheduled for Friday, will proceed as planned but with an increased police presence to ensure the safety of all attendees. Authorities are taking these threats seriously and are committed to providing a secure environment for students and community members alike.

This incident highlights the importance of vigilance in school communities and emphasizes the role of effective communication between students, parents, and educators in addressing safety concerns. The district continues to encourage students to report any suspicious activity or rumors to maintain a safe and supportive educational environment.

As the investigation continues, parents and guardians are reminded to stay updated and engaged with their schools, fostering a community that prioritizes safety and well-being. The proactive steps taken by the Idaho Falls School District serve as a model for other educational institutions faced with similar challenges.

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Additional Resources

• East Idaho News
• Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
• Idaho News
• Google Search: Idaho Falls school gun threat
• Local News 8
• Google Scholar: School Safety Gun Threats
• AOL News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: School Safety
• Idaho State Journal
• Google News: Idaho Falls school safety