Highline Public Schools initiates modified lockdown for 8 schools after threats circulate on social media

Several Highline Public Schools went into a modified lockdown on Friday morning, Sept. 20, 2024, after a social media post surfaced, claiming a threat to multiple schools in the region.

Eight schools went into modified lockdown, which, according to the district, means:

“Students can move about inside the school but not outside. Exterior doors are locked. Only known staff are allowed to enter. Exterior windows and blinds are closed.”

The schools under lockdown include Glacier Middle School, Highline High School, McMicken Heights Elementary School, Hilltop Elementary School, Cascade Middle School, Des Moines Elementary School, Sylvester Middle School, and Tyee High School.

More information about the specific threat has not yet been released by the district.

Highline Public Schools is working with local law enforcement, including the Des Moines and SeaTac Police departments, to investigate the validity of the post and ensure the safety of students and staff.

“Out of an abundance of caution, the named schools will begin the day in a modified lockdown with increased security to ensure the safety of all students and staff,” the district said in a safety notification to parents.

While the investigation into the threat continues, the district is encouraging students and families to report any safety concerns.

“The safety of our students is our number one priority,” the statement added, reassuring families that every threat is taken seriously.

Here’s the full statement released by the district:

“Dear Families,

“We were notified this morning of a social media post claiming a threat against many schools across the region, including some Highline schools. Safety and Security is investigating along with Des Moines Police and SeaTac Police. We will continue to investigate the validity of this post.

“Out of an abundance of caution, the named schools will begin the day in a modified lockdown with increased security to ensure the safety of all students and staff. The Highline schools mentioned in the post include:

• Glacier Middle School

• Highline High School

• McMicken Heights Elementary School

• Hilltop Elementary School

• Tyee High School

• Cascade Middle School

• Des Moines Elementary School

• Sylvester Middle School

“We encourage students to report any safety concerns they may have. The safety of our students is our number one priority. We take every report of a threat seriously and respond immediately.”