Leon County schools are facing a surge in weapon related incidents and threats, mirroring a troubling national trend that has left parents and officials on edge.
Since the start of the school year, Leon County has seen multiple arrests of students for bringing loaded firearms to campus. The district has received over 500 tips about potential threats, most proving to be unfounded but causing significant disruption and anxiety.
The local situation reflects a nationwide issue. From California to Illinois, schools are grappling with an uptick in violent threats, many originating on social media platforms like Snapchat and TikTok. Law enforcement agencies across the country are arresting students as young as 11 for making threats, straining resources, and disrupting education.
“Parents, your children are safe. I promise you they’re safe,” Leon County Superintendent Rocky Hanna said at a recent press conference. “When we start not sending kids to school because of these fears, then the bad guys win.”
Hanna outlined the district’s comprehensive safety measures, including armed deputies at all schools, security monitors, and AI-powered cameras capable of detecting weapons. Despite these precautions, attendance has suffered, with Rickards High School reporting over 1,000 absences in a single day due to safety concerns.
Damian Loggins, parent of an Oak Ridge Elementary School student, expressed his understanding of why some parents choose to keep their children home.
“I see what is being posted on social media,” Loggins said. “I would rather them have an absence than for something unfortunate to happen.”
As schools and law enforcement officials work to address the issue, they face the challenge of balancing safety measures with maintaining a normal learning environment. The surge in threats has reignited debates about school security, parental responsibility, and the influence of social media on student behavior.
Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil emphasized the seriousness of making threats, even if unfounded.
“We’re going to go after you, find you, and get you arrested,” Sheriff McNeil said, addressing potential perpetrators.
With the safety of students at stake, Leon County officials urge parents and students to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity while warning of severe consequences for those spreading false information or making threats. The district encourages the use of the FortifyFL app to anonymously report suspicious activity.