Taunton High School, Middle School Classes Cancelled Due to Threatening Note

TAUNTON — Classes at Taunton High School and Parker Middle School have been cancelled for Tuesday, after a high school employee found an "anonymous and threatening" note.

Below is the letter sent out to the school community from Taunton Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Julie Hackett:

Dear Taunton School Community:

Taunton High School and Parker Middle School will be cancelled tomorrow, May 22, 2018. Additionally, there will be no practices or after-school activities tomorrow for Taunton High School and Parker Middle School students, faculty, and staff. The only two schools that are cancelled are Taunton High School (THS) and Parker Middle School. All other schools in the Taunton Public School district will have a regularly scheduled school day tomorrow.

A note was found by a THS employee at the close of school today. In accordance with proper safety protocols and procedures, the THS administration immediately contacted the Taunton Police Department and the Superintendent of Schools. It was determined that the anonymous and threatening note warrants further investigation, prompting the cancellation of school tomorrow. As always, we are grateful for the swift response and the professionalism of the Taunton Police Department, as they work with us to keep our schools safe.

All Taunton High School and Parker Middle School students are required to make up the school day. Originally, THS students were only required to attend school for half-days during finals on the 21st and 22nd of June, 2018. These days will now be full-days of school for all THS students. We will send more information to Parker Middle School students and staff on how we plan to make up the instructional time they will be losing tomorrow.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. It is never easy to make the decision to cancel school. We know it is an inconvenience for our students, parents, caregivers, and staff. Please know that the safety and security of our school community remains our top priority. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at central office or Headmaster Mattos at 508-821-1101.

Sincerely,

Julie Hackett, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools, Taunton Public Schools

Police say at this time, the investigation is active and going, and no further information will be provided.

Anyone who might have witnessed the incident, or otherwise has information regarding this incident, is encouraged to contact the Taunton Police Department at (508) 824-7522.