Newsroom

Addressing Recent School Safety Concerns

For Immediate Release
Contact: Katherine Goff, Public Relations and Communications Officer
kgoff@ycsd.york.va.us
(757) 898-0391

This morning, Division Superintendent Victor Shandor and Sheriff Ron Montgomery, along with members of their senior leadership teams, met to review several incidents involving rumors and threats of weapons or potential violence at our schools over the last several days. These threats, primarily spread through social media and text messages, have caused understandable concern in our community.

During this review, we assessed our response efforts, evaluated the effectiveness of our procedures, and discussed ways to further enhance the safety of our students and staff. The meeting underscored the strong and ongoing collaboration between the York County School Division and the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office in prioritizing school safety. The group will continue to hold meetings each quarter of the school year to discuss matters impacting our schools.

"The safety of our students and staff is our top priority, and we are fortunate to have such a strong, long-standing partnership with the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office, said Dr. Victor Shandor, division superintendent. "I want to personally thank Sheriff Montgomery and his team of investigators for their swift responses and thorough investigations into these recent threats. Our partnership is recognized across the state as a model for how school divisions and law enforcement can work together to protect students and staff."

Both agencies are committed to continuously improving our approach to school safety, but we also recognize the crucial role the community plays in keeping our schools secure. If you become aware of a potential threat—whether online, through social media, or in person—we urge you to immediately contact local authorities by dialing 911. Timely reporting is essential for us to take swift and appropriate action.

"We investigate every threat thoroughly, whether it’s made in writing or verbally," said Sheriff Ron Montgomery. "If the evidence supports it, we will pursue charges against any individual who threatens another student, a staff member, or a school."

To foster greater understanding and encourage open dialogue on this critical issue, families, staff and community members are invited to a joint School Safety Forum on Wednesday, September 25, at 159 Goodwin Neck Road, Yorktown (York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office). The forum will feature a presentation on school safety efforts, followed by an opportunity for public questions and comments. Interested individuals are asked to register online to attend as seating is limited.