Foolish threat at NCMS contained today

Superintendent Jeff Fritz

The public concern about something happening regarding a recent threat at North Clay Middle School needs some context.

Clay Community Schools sent a message to the parents of students attending North Clay Middle School Wednesday:

“Clay Community Schools administration was made aware of a threat of violence against North Clay Middle School. Law enforcement was contacted immediately, and the student who had made the threat was detained and is currently in police custody. At no time today was there any immediate danger to any student or staff member. The procedures that we have in place allowed us to handle this situation with no disruption to the school. The threat has been mitigated.

We appreciate your willingness to continually trust us with your children. We try to provide them with a safe and caring environment at school.”

Superintendent Jeff Fritz said the message was sent as a way to keep parents informed about the safety of their children, as he understands their concerns.

“At no time was a gun present or did any type of shooting occur,” said Fritz, who said a juvenile student made a very foolish statement. “We take that type of situation seriously.”

Worried parents took to social media to voice concerns, which ignited a maelstrom of confusion.

Fritz said it is a “shame that these types of threats are made in our schools, but we deal with them seriously and work closely with law enforcement.” NOTE: Because a juvenile is involved, no details about the incident are being released at this time.

“This is something we have to deal with now as a society,” said Fritz. “And try to do so without any school disruption, if possible.”