Dear Pirates Friends and Families,

Safeguarding the well-being of both our students and staff is a primary concern at Berea Community Schools. Regrettably, there has been an alarming rise in instances of students within schools across Kentucky and the nation making threats of a terroristic nature, intending to cause harm to fellow students or staff members.

According to Kentucky state law (KRS 508.078) Terroristic Threatening in the second degree is defined as follows:

(1) A person is guilty of terroristic threatening in the second degree when, other than as provided in KRS 508.075, he or she intentionally: 

b) Makes false statements by any means, including by electronic communication, for the purpose of: 

1. Causing evacuation of a school building, school property, or school-sanctioned activity; 

2. Causing cancellation of school classes or school-sanctioned activity; or

3. Creating fear of serious bodily harm among students, parents, or school personnel

Such threats to our students and school staff are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.  As a result, the purpose of this letter is to notify all parents and guardians that Berea Community Schools will pursue immediate legal charges for felony terroristic threatening in the second degree, to the absolute fullest extent of the law, against anyone who makes such threats, including students.  Moreover, we will advocate to our highest ability that the prosecution of these individuals be swift, and their punishment be severe. 

Our approach to eliminating terroristic threats in our schools is strong and unwavering. As a result, it is imperative that you discuss this critically important matter with your student as soon as possible. Please do your part to ensure that your student never becomes a party to such an offense by educating them on the seriousness of its consequences. Together we can prevent this unnecessary, dangerous, and disruptive crime from victimizing our schools. Through this collaborative effort, we can focus on preparing our children for college, career and life readiness while all the while providing a safe learning environment

Thank you for all that you do. Teamwork makes the dream work. Remember to always aim high and dare to be great!

Sincerely,

Dr. Diane Hatchett, Superintendent

Berea Community Schools