COLUMBIA, S.C. — Parents Express Safety Concerns Amid Threats to Newberry Schools
In Columbia, South Carolina, parents from the Newberry Public School District are expressing growing concerns for their children’s safety following a recent wave of threats made against local schools. The situation has come to light after several parents, prompted by alarming social media posts, voiced their fears about sending their children to school.
Who Is Involved?
Crystal Shealy, a mother of three with children in the Newberry Public School District, has been vocal about her anxieties. She, like many other parents, is caught in a difficult situation—whether to send her child to school feeling scared about potential threats. Her seventh-grade daughter, who has expressed fears about a possible school shooting, is a prime example of how these threats are impacting students.
What Happened?
The concerns began after a troubling social media post circulated among students, warning of a potential school shooting. According to Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster, the post originated from a student and quickly spread across platforms like Facebook and Snapchat. This incident has triggered a wave of anxiety among parents and students alike.
Where Did This Occur?
This alarming trend has not just been isolated to Newberry, but appears to be a broader issue seen across South Carolina and potentially throughout the United States. The Newberry community is one of many grappling with concerns over school safety.
When Did This All Begin?
The specific threats surfaced earlier this week, leading to intensified discussions about school safety. This surge of fear has prompted actions from parents, teachers, and school district officials as they seek to address these safety concerns.
Why Is This Happening?
The rise in threats has left many parents wondering about existing security measures in schools. With parents like Shealy suggesting that the installation of metal detectors could provide some peace of mind, they are looking for more robust safety measures. Shealy stated, “Metal detectors would give us a little bit of peace of mind. It would show that they are implementing something.” The call for heightened security reflects a growing trend among parents seeking reassurance.
Current Measures and Future Considerations
The Newberry School District has acknowledged these parental concerns and is currently exploring the possibility of installing metal detectors. However, officials caution that such measures come with significant costs and logistical challenges. Sheriff Foster emphasized that it requires a minimum of two personnel to operate metal detectors effectively.
Reassurance and Advice from Authorities
Despite the most recent threat being deemed non-credible, Sheriff Foster has urged parents and students to report any concerns directly to law enforcement rather than relying on social media. He encourages communication with authorities, reiterating, “If you see something, say something.” This guidance aims to ensure that credible concerns are addressed immediately and effectively.
Conclusion
The safety fears among parents in the Newberry area highlight an ongoing nationwide concern regarding school security. As the school district and local authorities consider and implement additional safety measures, the reassurance of parents like Crystal Shealy remains paramount. With open communication and proactive measures, the community hopes to create a safer environment for all students.
