Message Regarding School Safety

September 11, 2024

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Students and families across FCPS have been reaching out to principals and other school leaders sharing different threatening posts circulating on multiple social media platforms. 

At this time, authorities are not aware of any credible threats against Fairfax County Public Schools.

Several of the posts being shared originated in Alabama, and six students have been arrested in connection with the threats. In another instance, Fairfax County Police investigated, identified the student, and determined that the threat was not credible. Appropriate disciplinary action is being taken.

These posts can be particularly upsetting given recent news. Please know that FCPS takes the safety of our students and staff very seriously. We are grateful to our law enforcement partners who work swiftly and thoroughly to investigate when there are safety concerns in our schools.

The first step that you should take if your child shares a safety concern with you is to contact authorities. If your safety concern is an emergency, please call 911. FCPS Office of Safety and Security also has a safety tip line that you can access anonymously online, by text, or by phone. 

Please also take the time to talk with your child about the consequences of these types of actions and the appropriate use of social media. Know what social media accounts your child has set up and what platforms they are using, especially SnapChat, Tik Tok, and Instagram.

If your student heard these rumors and needs to talk to someone, please be in touch with your student's counselor. The National Association of School Psychologists has a resource that can help you to identify when your child might be struggling, and how you can have difficult conversations with them about school violence. 

Thank you for being our partners in maintaining a safe school environment. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Michelle C. Reid
Superintendent