Editor's note: The Bayfield Middle School principal sent this letter on Thursday, Oct. 12, after the school was evacuated.
By Tod Lokey
Dear Bayfield Middle School Community,
Today was a challenging day that presented students and staff with fear and anxiety. We had a presumed bomb threat; fortunately, there was no explosive device at the school, and the student of concern was contained. Safety of school and student body was established, and we returned students to classes and our schedule. The investigation of the incident extended for the remainder of the day with local law enforcement.
Tomorrow is a new day, and Bayfield Middle School will continue to work with students throughout the day as needed. The student of concern will not be on any school district property, and our school resource officers will be on campus with students for the day. Teachers will be running advisory with a specific activity to provide clarity on the issue where we can, allow students to process the issues against our Core Values, and to directly speak to tools that support students to share their concerns, such as Safe-2-Tell. We want to recognize the courage of the students who did come forward with their concerns.
I had the distinct pleasure of walking through the building multiple times today with the intent of looking every child in the eyes and check in with them. They are remarkable. They are resilient. Some students who wanted to leave earlier in the day but persevered were smiling and enjoying themselves in the afternoon. The structure and routine of school and the support of our amazing staff helped move them forward.
Our community is not without concern. I join you in that. Tomorrow will have routine but it will also have time for students to process today and receive the support that they need. Safety is our primary concern.
If you have further questions, I invite you to contact me. I will be around with our students all day, and I will do my best to connect with anyone who requests my ear.
Tod Lokey is the principal at Bayfield Middle School.
