Martin, Tenn.–Weakley County Director of Schools Jeff Cupples has commended law enforcement and school staff following Monday’s threat by a student on social media. Cupples issued the following statement this afternoon:
“Yesterday morning, a student notified the leadership at Westview High School of a threatening social media post. The Martin Police Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and other law enforcement agencies immediately launched a full investigation into the incident. Students, faculty, and staff at Westview High followed the protocols and safety measures in place at the school. We were notified yesterday evening by law enforcement that an individual had been identified and charged in connection with the post.
“The safety of our schools is the district’s priority. We are blessed here in Weakley County to have the most skilled and talented law enforcement teams that can be found anywhere in the country. We are grateful to Chief Don Teal, Assistant Chief Phillip Fuqua, and their team for the quick response and steadfast dedication to ensuring safety in our schools and communities.
“We want to also express gratitude to Westview High Principal Brian Allen and the faculty and staff for following their safety training, and particularly to the student who brought this information to the school administrator’s attention.
“Parents, remember that school safety is everyone’s responsibility. Monitor your child’s online activity, use parental controls whenever possible, and ask your child’s school for help and resources on social media issues.
“Students, parents, and anyone in the community can anonymously report a safety concern 24/7/365 by visiting the website weakleycountyschools-tn.safeschoolsalert.com. The website provides the option to anonymously report via mobile app, text, web, email, or phone.”