Rumors surfaced Wednesday morning that some type of violence may take place at KHS Wednesday, Nov. 12. Dr. Michael Havener, principal, said he was contacted Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning by parents about the potential violence. Havener’s sources said any violence would be related to the release of the Michael Brown case findings. The grand jury, however, has not yet released their decision. Upon hearing these rumors, Havener contacted Kirkwood police officers who began looking into the threat. Although the police found no substance to the rumors, Havener said two additional police officers accompanied KHS School Resource Officer Chad Walton at school Wednesday.

“There was concern,” Havener said. “We are glad people shared those concerns, so we could be proactive. The police did an enormous amount of research, and nothing has been substantiated.”

Havener sent an email to KHS parents and staff at 2:40 p.m. Wednesday to dispel any rumors about the cause of heightened police presence. Below is the email:

In a high school, there are times when rumors and gossip spread like wildfire through the halls. We typically do not refute or substantiate rumors, but given the sensitive nature of the rumor going around today, I thought it was important to contact parents. The rumor is alleging threats against Kirkwood High School today.

While we believe this is only a rumor, we did contact the Kirkwood Police Department to investigate. At this time, the rumor is unsubstantiated. Many rumors of this type start on social media and spread very quickly. I want you to know that we work with our staff and police departments to investigate any rumor that may jeopardize the safety of our students and staff. 

We need your help. Please talk to your children tonight and reassure them that if they do hear a rumor, it is okay to talk to an adult about the rumor so that we can investigate the situation. This is an important step in keeping our school safe and creates an open dialogue between students and staff. I also ask that you talk to your children about the importance of not spreading rumors among their peers, because rumors of this nature create fear in our school community.

The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority. We will continue to be vigilant and communicate important information to our school family. Please call the school office at 314-213-6110 with any concerns.

Sincerely,

Dr. Mike Havener

Principal

For more coverage of KSD’s plans concerning the release of findings in the Michael Brown case, click here.