SVSD Will Reopen October 2, 2024
Per the message sent this afternoon, the Schuylkill Valley School District will reopen on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 as a Day 3.
Schuylkill Valley School District in Ontelaunee Township, has faced back-to-back security threats, leading to the arrest of two students and causing significant concern among parents. A 16-year-old student was taken into custody after being found with a BB gun that resembled a Glock at the high school. Less than 24 hours later, a 14-year-old student was arrested for posting a threat to the district on Snapchat, leading to the cancellation of classes.
Parents have expressed their worries about the safety of their children in the wake of these incidents. "Our students are traumatized. Our teachers are scared. Parents don't want to send their kids to school because we don't know what's going to happen," said Mariah Hawkins, a parent in the district, in an interview with News Journal.
Berks County District Attorney, John Adams, stated that both students are facing charges for their actions. The 14-year-old student who made the threat on Snapchat will be charged with terroristic threats, a felony charge, according to WFMZ.
In response to the incidents, the district announced that schools would reopen with a heightened police presence and additional school counselors in each building. However, parents are calling for more safety measures, including the implementation of a school resource officer.