The following message was shared with Worcester Technical High School students, families, and staff via ParentSquare on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 11 AM:
Dear Worcester Technical High School Community,
We are contacting you to report a safety concern that occurred a short time ago at Worcester Technical High School. Please know that all of our students and staff are safe.
The school was placed into a “hold” status for approximately 20 minutes this morning. During a “hold,” staff and students are asked to stay in their rooms and keep the hallways clear of people.
The Worcester Police Department was called to the school at approximately 10:15 AM on a report of possible gunshots at the school. It turned out that this was a false threat that was made by a student at the school from a school phone.
There was a considerable and prompt police response to the building. Police officers entered several classrooms in question to ensure that the situation was safe. Several Worcester Public Schools administrators also arrived at the school to assist school administrators and staff.
Making false threats of violence is absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
Anyone found responsible for making false threats of violence will be prosecuted by law enforcement and will face consequences from WPS as outlined in the student code of conduct.
Teachers and counselors are here to speak with any student who is feeling anxious or worried. Visit the Health and Wellness page of our website for additional resources on how to speak with your children. For more information about safety protocols in WPS, view the district Standard Response Protocols or the Safety Department web pages.
Please know that Worcester Public Schools and Worcester Police Department are in close communication to ensure the safety of our students and staff, which is always our top priority. If you or your children learn of any safety concerns, please report them to an administrator at your school.
Sincerely,
Drew Weymouth
Principal
Worcester Technical High School