Threatening call to Hopkins elementary school prompts lockdown, police perimeter days after security threat at high school

Law enforcement responded to Alice Smith Elementary School in Hopkins on Wednesday for a threatening call, just days after three other schools in the district were placed in a secure hold due to threats.

A spokesperson for Hopkins Public Schools said the elementary school recieved a threatening phone call Wednesday, which was “similar in nature” to the call Hopkins High School got on Monday.

RELATED: Hopkins High School released early after threatening call

The elementary school was then put on lockdown as officers made a perimeter around the building, a district official said.

A notice of the lockdown was sent to families around 1 p.m. At 1:26 p.m., a follow-up was sent, stating the school was transitioning from a lockdown to a hold and “moving toward” normal school procedures. School was later dismissed as normal, district officials confirmed.

On Monday, a threatening call to the high school led officials to place the high school, North Middle School, and Tanglen Elementary in a secure hold. The high school later released students early and said the threats were deemed not credible.

Officials have not specified what was said on either phone call that prompted the security measures.

The full letter sent to parents and guardians of Alice Smith Elementary School students is below.

“Dear Alice Smith Families,

“Alice Smith’s main office received a phone call that was interpreted as a potential threat. The call was similar in nature to the call Hopkins High School received earlier this week. In consultation with law enforcement and our Safety and Security Coordinator, we have implemented a lockdown via our Standard Response Protocol.

“At this time, students and staff are safe.

“Out of an abundance of caution, law enforcement is establishing a perimeter around the school.

“We are actively working with local law enforcement and district leadership to assess the situation. We will continue to share updates with you as more information becomes available.

“Please do not come to Alice Smith at this time. 

“We appreciate your partnership and understanding as we prioritize the safety of our students and staff.

“Sent at 1:26 p.m. Plus a text message:

“Subject: Update: Alice Smith Moving Toward Normal Activities

“Dear Alice Smith Families,

“Following our Standard Response Protocol we have transitioned from a lockdown to a hold and are moving towards resuming normal school activities. Students and staff remain safe and there is no evidence of a threat present on our campus. Out of an abundance of caution, law enforcement is maintaining an increased presence around the school’s perimeter. 

“At this time, we are planning for a normal conclusion to the school day, including a standard dismissal time and standard transportation process.

“We appreciate your partnership and understanding as we prioritize the safety of our students and staff. We will continue to update you as more information is available.”

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