The following information was sent to families via SchoolMessenger on Friday, May 17 with the subject "West Jefferson Middle School Follow-Up". The content has been formatted for the web.
May 17, 2024
Dear West Jefferson Middle School Staff and Families,
I am reaching out today to acknowledge your frustration about the two consecutive days of bomb threats that have disrupted learning and generated fear in the community. Moreover, we have heard your calls for clear and timely communication that allows parents to make informed decisions.
It is important to me that you know that any threat we receive is acted on with the utmost urgency. Students' safety is our highest priority.
We have specific protocols in place to ensure accurate and clear communication. These protocols include collaboration between the district's Department of School Safety, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, and the district's communications team. I have asked for a review of the recent safety events – that includes gathering feedback on communication to families – so that our teams may reflect on aspects of our response that can be improved to best support our staff, students and families in the future.
The fact that threats like the ones at West Jeff happen regularly does not excuse them. Jeffco is working closely with its law enforcement partners to pursue the culprits to the highest extent of the law.
In the meantime, you will be hearing from principal Kim Halingstad and community superintendent Wes Paxton on Monday with what you can expect to be in place to limit disruptions at West Jeff and ensure a strong finish to the school year and tangible improvements to school culture going into next year. This includes support from our district teams that are experts in school culture and student behavior.
School safety is a true partnership. Your continued support and cooperation are invaluable as we work together to ensure our schools remain safe places where the students, families and staff feel that they belong.
Sincerely,
Tracy Dorland
Superintendent,
Jeffco Public Schools