Sequoit Families,
At 1:25 pm Friday afternoon(10-21), ACHS received a voicemail with a generalized threat of violence. The phone call was initiated by a phone that had been identified as missing/stolen by a student shortly before the call was made. ACHS initiated a security lockdown which requires staff and students to remain in their classrooms until further notice. The Antioch Police Department was contacted immediately and the rest of the response was a coordinated effort on the part of APD and ACHS/D117.
The response on the part of the Antioch Police Department and their coordination with several assisting law enforcement agencies was significant. A large police presence quickly responded to ACHS and secured the major corridors within the building. Shortly thereafter, individual classrooms were cleared and secured by law enforcement with assistance from ACHS administration. Students and staff were directed to the gymnasium and once the "all clear" indication was given, students were escorted out of the Athletic Entrance as law enforcement provided security to the perimeter of the building.
We do want to take this time to publicly commend the actions of APD and other law enforcement. While many did not see the actions of APD first hand, I do want to relate that the response was significant, orderly, and quick. Given the light of recent and similar events to schools in southeastern Wisconsin, it was reassuring to know that the building could be secured and their presence provided a sense of safety for all.
I would also like to take the time to thank parents and students for their cooperation and understanding. There is no doubt that this was a stressful time for all involved. As students might be struggling with this event, counselors, social workers and other staff will be available to help process at any time necessary on Monday. Students should go to the Student Services Office and a staff member will be able to assist.
Lastly, one of our greatest tools in keeping a safe environment is when students, staff and families "see something, they say something". The incident on Friday is an on-going investigation with APD and holds promising leads. Any information regarding this incident or any other incident of concern should please be shared with the Deans or other building administration. It is through the collective efforts of all that we are able to provide the safest environment possible.
Again, many thanks for your continued cooperation in all of our efforts towards making ACHS the best it can possibly be.
Mike Berrie
Principal
Antioch Community High School