Developing: Schools closed in DeForest due to 'potential threats'
DEFOREST — Public schools have been closed in DeForest on Friday, September 4th due to what officials are calling "potential threats."
The DeForest School District issued a statement late Thursday saying that an ongoing investigation had revealed "a potential safety issue." It says all schools will be closed Friday. All home games are canceled but away games will take place. Here is the text of that statement:
"We are currently investigating potential threats being made against our schools. An ongoing investigation has revealed today a potential safety issue.
"We are collaborating with the Village of DeForest Police Department and the Dane County Sheriff's Department. Based on information learned today, we felt it was appropriate to close schools on Friday, September 4. We take each threat seriously, and therefore, are taking proactive precautions to ensure our school's safety. Law enforcement officials are following up on leads and will continue to do so throughout the weekend.
"Because the threat was not specific to a particular school, all schools will be closed to students, staff and the public from Friday, September 4 until Tuesday, September 8. Law enforcement will be searching all of our schools for anything that has the potential of jeopardizing the safety of our students and staff. No one will be allowed into any of the school buildings during this time. All home after-school activities are cancelled. Away athletic events will take place. Students should not go to school. Coaches will communicate with students a meeting location where they will board the bus to travel to their competition.
"The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority, and we will continue to be vigilant in the investigation throughout the weekend. We anticipate school reopening on Tuesday, September 8 at the normal time, and we will plan on communicating with you again on Monday, September 7."
The DeForest Police Department and Dane County Sheriff's Office are investigating. Law enforcement agencies will search all schools for anything that could jeopardize the safety of students and staff, and will follow up on leads through the weekend.