CMS Encourages Students To 'See Something, Say Something'

HUNTERSVILLE, NC — Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools had no incidents after a viral Tik Tok challenge vaguely threatened schools nationwide Friday.

Still, CMS will remain vigilant when it comes to school threats, especially after23 guns have been discovered in schools this semester alone, including an AR-15.

CMS sent a message to parents asking students if they see something, to say something.

"Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is among many school districts throughout the nation that are seeing a sharp increase in the volume of social media threats directed toward schools," the message read.

"CMS and local law enforcement agencies take every threat seriously. Law enforcement investigates all threats, conducting threat assessments, interviewing families and enforcing consequences. Even threats deemed not credible are violations of the CMS Code of Student Conduct and suspensions or other serious consequences may result. In many cases, any threat, credible or not, also results in criminal charges."

The statement continued, "almost all threats turn out to be unfounded, with students admitting they didn’t intend to harm anyone or saying they were just joking. The safety of students and staff is nothing to joke about," it read.

"CMS will continue to report all threats to law enforcement for investigation. Credible threats will immediately lead to notification to families, students, school officials and staff. Threats – credible or not, often perpetuate the spread of other threats that disrupt learning and cancel events.
We encourage families to talk to students about the seriousness of making false threats or sharing them on social media. We also ask families to monitor students’ online and social media behavior. Our schools can provide resources or guidance to families."

They again urged anyone with any knowledge of a threat to come forward.

"We appreciate those who come forward to make us aware of threats. If you or your child has credible information about a possible safety threat, please let a school official know. You can also call Charlotte-Mecklenburg CrimeStoppers at 704-344-1600 or submit an anonymous tip online at CharlotteCrimeStoppers.com."