Superintendent responds to safety concerns

Dear Walla Walla Community,

On February 16, 2018, the Union Bulletin reported a safety concern incident at Walla Walla High School. The information was taken from a police report submitted by the Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Department. The report was a result of a possible student-related incident involving a verbal threat.

Walla Walla Public Schools takes all threats seriously and immediately acts to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its students and staff. In this situation, a student made a poor decision with an inappropriate comment to another student that included the mention of a weapon. The student immediately stated to the other that the comment was “a joke.” The student did not have a weapon on his possession. Per district policy, the student was emergency expelled to allow time for a risk assessment and additional follow-up from authorities. A thorough investigation was completed, concluding the student's threat was not legitimate. The district is not permitted to release additional details regarding consequences of student discipline.

On Friday, February 23, 2018, another concern was raised at Wa-Hi. Just prior to the start of an assembly, school officials were informed by a parent of a possible threat overheard by their student. This tip was immediately investigated in cooperation with our local safety officials, which concluded with a finding that the rumored threat was not real. I want to commend Principal Ron Higgins, SRO Deputy Thonney, and others on site who handled the matter professionally and promptly. In addition, I want to especially thank Sheriff Turner, Chief Bieber, and members from both of their departments who immediately responded and remained on site during the assembly so that everyone felt safe, despite there being no risk.

These are incredibly sensitive times for all of us as we collectively mourn the recent loss of life in Florida. During this time of elevated anxiety around school safety concerns across our nation, Walla Walla Public Schools will continue to be diligent in keeping students and staff safe while also keeping district stakeholders informed on safety matters to the extent permitted by law. In an emergency situation, we will always communicate information to students and families promptly.

I encourage all students, staff, families and community members to remain diligent in reporting safety concerns to law enforcement and school officials. Whether it is an unsafe condition, rumor, or the potential of someone harming himself or herself, it is critical to report the information so that we can ensure our campuses and community remain a safe and welcoming environment for all.

I am proud to serve as your Superintendent and be part of a community which cares so deeply for its children.

Wade Smith
Superintendent of Schools