February 16, 2023
South Henry Family,
Late in the afternoon on Tuesday, February 14th, 2023, school administrators at Tri Jr. Sr. High School were informed of an alleged comment made out of frustration by a student in class that was threatening in nature. School administration immediately contacted law enforcement and began an internal investigation. Because students had left school for the day, contact was made with those involved via telephone into the evening hours. On Wednesday, February 15th, a planned eLearning Day was held, and students were not in the building. Investigations by the Tri Jr./Sr. High School administration and the Henry County Sheriff’s Department continued concurrently, interviewing and speaking with those involved and those who witnessed the alleged statement.
At the conclusion of the investigation by the Henry County Sheriff’s Department, law enforcement determined that the student had made the statement “I’m going to shoot this place up” to other students. The student was then arrested for one preliminary count of Intimidation (Level 6 Felony).
South Henry School Corporation staff has fully cooperated with the investigation of the Henry County Sheriff’s Department. I am grateful for the hard work and diligence of both the Tri Jr./Sr. High School administrative team and the Henry County Sheriff’s Department in conducting a thorough and complete investigation.
It is very important to note that at no time has evidence revealed the means nor intent to carry out a violent act against others here at school or elsewhere. Additionally, through the swift actions of those involved, the student was not permitted back on campus after given due process. I rest confidently knowing that at no time was there an immediate threat toward the safety of our students or staff. With this said, out of an abundance of caution, additional law enforcement personnel were present for the start of school today.
This situation brings great opportunity to speak with our children about the power of our words. While in the moment we may not fully understand the gravity of the words that we speak, they have strong implications, both positively and negatively, on others. It also emphasizes the ongoing importance that if a student hears something concerning, they should say something, whether the comment is thought to be serious or not. A report can be made to a teacher, staff member, or administrator at any time.
In closing, there is no place at the South Henry School Corporation for any comments that could be considered threatening to the safety of our most precious assets…our people. We have, and will continue to, take steps to insure the safety of the entire South Henry family each and every day. That is my promise.
We are strong. We are resilient. We are Titans.
Jeremy Duncan
Superintendent, South Henry School Corporation