10/31/2024
Dear Claremont School District Families,
I want to inform you that Stevens High School will be closed on Friday, November 1, 2024, due to a threat. On October 31, 2024, a message originating from within Stevens High School was sent, threatening an act of violence intended for November 1, 2024, at Stevens High School. No other school had been identified. I take this threat very seriously and have been working closely with the Claremont City Police Chief, the Assistant Police Chief, and the SHS Principal to investigate and ensure our students' safety.
While Stevens High School is the only school that will not be in session on Friday, I felt it essential to share this information with all district families. As both your Superintendent and as a parent myself. I want to be as transparent as possible so you can make the decision you feel most comfortable about sending your student to any of the other schools. I can always justify canceling school when there is a potential risk, but I cannot justify holding school in the face of uncertainty.
Let me assure you I am only airing on the side of caution in regard to this threat. Unfortunately, threats like this happen too often within school and we just can’t take any risk in this day and age.
In the meantime, the Claremont City PD will be patrolling throughout the day for all the schools to ensure a presence. I will continue to work with the Claremont City Police Department and the high school administration to identify the individual responsible for this threat.
Thank you for your understanding and support. Student safety is my top priority, and I am committed to ensuring a safe learning environment for all. Please know that SHS will be required to make up this day at the end of the school year.
Sincerely,
Chris Pratt
Superintendent