JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Students were placed on a brief lockdown in Kernan Middle School on Wednesday after a false rumor of a student bringing a firearm to school.
The lockdown happened right before dismissal and it was further investigated.
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Students were able to exit the school safely. Duval County Public Schools said that if their is any further information they will notify the parents.
On Thursday, Kernan Middle School’s principal sent an email to parents saying they are screening all students and searching backpacks before entering the school.
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Even though there is no specific threat, they would like to take all precautions.
Principal Akande said to also check your child’s belongings before entering the school.
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Here are the messages from Principal Akande that were sent to parents:
April 12 Communication
“Hello Kernan families, this is principal Akande. I wanted to make you aware that we called a brief lockdown prior to dismissal this afternoon due to a rumor that a student may have been in possession of a firearm. We quickly investigated the rumor and determined it was false. The lockdown was lifted and dismissal proceeded as normal. We have reported it to law enforcement and they are conducting the appropriate investigation. If there is any further information or action required as a result of this investigation, I will keep you informed. Thank you and have a nice evening.”
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April 13 Communication
“Hello Kernan Middle School families, this is Principal Akande calling. I apologize for interrupting your morning so early, but I know that you will want to be aware of this information. Last evening, I informed you about a brief lockdown in response to a rumor of a firearm. Police have investigated this situation, and while there is no specific threat to our school, in an abundance of caution we will be screening all students and searching backpacks and belongings as students enter the building this morning. Again, there is no specific threat. However, we want to be cautious and take the step of screening all students to ensure a safe and secure campus. Please double check your child’s belongings for any type of prohibited item before arriving to school today. Thank you for your cooperation, understanding, and partnership as we will always take the steps necessary to keep our students and staff safe. Thanks again, and I look forward to seeing everyone this morning. Good-bye.”
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