Duval schools tightening security at middle, high schools on 5th anniversary of Parkland shooting

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Duval County Public Schools said it is taking heightened security measures Tuesday at middle and high school campuses on the fifth anniversary of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland that killed 17 and injured 17.

In a message to families of middle and high school students, DCPS said it has not received any specific threats, but said “as a precaution, we will be conducting full screenings of students and their belongings as they enter our high school campuses. At middle schools, we will expand our use of random searches.”

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The district encouraged parents to look in their child’s backpacks and purses to “ensure no prohibited items are present.”

Here is the full text of the message that was sent to parents:

“Dear Middle and High School families,

“Tomorrow is the fifth anniversary of the tragic shooting that took place in South Florida at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Whenever such an anniversary occurs, threats and rumors of threats tend to increase.

“While we have not received any specific threats, we will always take steps to ensure the safety and security of our students and staff. Therefore, as a precaution, we will be conducting full screenings of students and their belongings as they enter our high school campuses. At middle schools, we will expand our use of random searches. Tomorrow, please go through your child’s backpack or purse and ensure that no prohibited items are present, especially any weapons or toy weapons.

“Thank you for your cooperation as we take steps to protect the safety of students and staff.

“Best,

Duval County Public Schools”

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