East Knox Local Schools resumed classes on Wednesday following a lockdown triggered by an anonymous threat on Jan. 12. Superintendent Richard J. Baird confirmed in a letter to families that law enforcement found no active danger after conducting a full sweep of the campus.
"I want to reassure you that a comprehensive sweep by several law enforcement agencies determined there was no active threat," Baird said.
The lockdown began at 11:18 a.m. Monday and involved multiple agencies, including the Knox County Sheriff's Office.
"On January 12th at 11:18 a.m., the district received an anonymous phone call from an unknown subject stating that they were armed and intended to enter the high school," Baird stated in a press release after the incident occurred. "Upon receiving this information, both the elementary and high school immediately initiated lockdown procedures and called 911."
Baird commended students and staff for their composure and swift response during the incident.
"Our reunification plan was successfully executed, and I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for their composure and swift action," he said.
To bolster safety, the district has implemented several new measures, including increased law enforcement presence, full use of weapons, detectors, and revised arrival procedures.
"Please know that the safety of our students remains our highest priority," the district stated.
Students are now asked to remove items such as three-ring binders, band instruments, laptops, and water bottles from their bags before entering school buildings.
Social workers will also be present in classrooms to provide wellness checks and trauma support.
Baird expressed gratitude to law enforcement and encouraged families to reach out with concerns. Classes resumed as scheduled on Jan. 14.
