N. Kingstown Schools, PD Monitor TikTok 'Gun Violence' Challenge

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI — Police and school officials in North Kingstown are aware of a TikTok challenge that's sparking concern in districts across the country. The trend reportedly encourages students to threaten gun violence at their schools on Friday, Dec. 17.

Superintendent Phil Auger said that the district reached out to North Kingstown police after becoming aware of the situation. No specific threats were made about North Kingstown schools or anywhere else in Rhode Island, he said.

"Although we have been informed that they are not credible, these types of rumors and social media posts can cause fear, stress and anxiety for our students and families, Auger said in a letter to families. "We ask that you share with your child why it is important to avoid sharing social media posts that refer to threats, show violence or advocate for vandalism."

Some districts say they have been "inundated" with questions about the social media school violence rumors and have responded in letters to parents and public statements in the days leading up to Friday.

"If you or your child become aware of any potential threat posted to social media or anywhere else, please notify the school principal immediately," Auger said. "Please reiterate with your children that involvement in or the promotion of threats, violence or vandalism has potential school disciplinary and legal consequences. I also encourage you to regularly review your child's social media accounts: TikTok, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat."

While it's unclear where the rumor originated, a news release issued by the Tooele County School District in Utah said the original threat started as a way for students to skip school, but "morphed into something much more disturbing."

According to some reports, the December challenge is one of several in a string of monthly challenges stemming from the social media platform.

In September, another challenge called "Devious Licks" encouraged raucous acts of vandalism at schools. To participate in the challenge, students and TikTok users shattered mirrors, stole soap dispensers, fire alarms and football field turf, and intentionally clogged toilets, all while filming the antics to post on TikTok.

Patch editors Megan VerHelst and Alex Newman contributed to this report.