District 196 High Schools Closed Due to Potential Online Threats
District 196 high schools are closed Tuesday because the district was notified “of potential online threats toward” high schools in Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools, the school district announced. The decision to close the schools was made as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Affecting Multiple Schools
Eastview, Eagan, Rosemount, and Apple Valley high schools are closed, said the district’s message sent shortly after 7:15 a.m. as students were at school or on the way. Additionally, Burnsville High School and Burnsville Alternative High School dismissed students on Tuesday morning, also as a precaution due to an online threat. The Apple Valley Police Department was contacted about 6:45 p.m. Monday about potential threats made via social media.
According to the police, “Officers were informed of multiple concerning messages posted online that referenced possible harm directed at several high schools within Independent School District 196.” Apple Valley detectives are actively investigating the origin of these posts and working to identify the individuals responsible. The investigation is working to trace the online accounts used for the threats.
Investigation and Response
ISD 196’s two other high schools, Area Learning Center and School of Environmental Studies, are also closed. Students who were at school early Tuesday morning were dismissed, and buses returned students home. Elementary and middle schools remain in session, including Dakota Hills Middle School, which shares a building with Eagan High School. The district stated, “At this time, there is no indication of a threat to elementary or middle school campuses.”
The district’s decision to close the high schools was made with safety as the top priority, allowing law enforcement to fully investigate the situation. As the investigation continues, the district and law enforcement agencies are working together to ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff. For more information, visit Here
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