This morning, an email was released by West Chicago Community High School’s new superintendent regarding an alleged threat via social media. In a joint decision, it has been determined by the West Chicago Police Department and the Board of Education that this threat is unsubstantiated and not directly related to the local community.

Johansen’s message was sent to the emails of all students and their parents, and teachers of West Chicago Community High School at 11:06 a.m. The email encourages students to follow the school’s motto: “see-something say-something.”

The full text of the email is below:

Earlier this morning I became aware of a screenshot message that has been spreading on social media throughout the Northern Illinois Region regarding an unsubstantiated safety concern. We have been working closely with the West Chicago Police Department, and we have jointly determined that this specific message is related to an unsubstantiated post and not directed at our school or community. We take all information regarding student and school safety seriously, and we are committed to open and transparent lines of communication in order to share accurate information. 

Parents, please remind your child that if they see something, say something. Ask them who their trusted adults are in the building, who they can report any safety concerns to. Additionally, we partner with Safe2Help and encourage students to utilize this after school hours or if they wish to remain anonymous by texting 72332. 

 Thank you for your support 

Dr. Johansen

Note: since the beginning of the 24-25 school year, there have been multiple threats to safety in schools around the country.