Important Update From Dr. Thurman - 9/12/24

Please watch this important update from Dr. Thurman:

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The safety of our children and schools is our highest priority. Recently, we faced a serious and alarming threat at Cabot High School — one that has left many of us feeling anxious and deeply concerned. We want to address this head-on, ensuring that as a community, we work together to safeguard our students.

There has been much emphasis on what the school is doing to protect students and staff. However, the conversation needs to shift to what we are ALL doing to ensure safety. While schools take extensive measures, safety starts at home, and your proactive involvement is essential.

When you first heard about the threat, did you immediately report it to school officials or simply post it on social media? Have you checked your child's social media for any concerning conversations or behavior? Are firearms in your home securely locked away and inaccessible to children? Ask yourselves these questions and take action where necessary. It is imperative for our students and your children to understand that there are consequences for posting threats regardless of intent. There are no jokes when it comes to student and staff safety.

Unfortunately, it is likely that we will be dealing with a similar situation in the near future. Should this happen, please understand that we will work diligently to provide you with accurate information as soon as possible. Statements like, "They are just sweeping this under the rug," does not help anyone and spreads unnecessary fear.

In any investigation, please understand that we actively work to identify suspects. Certain details must be withheld to avoid compromising the investigation. This is always done with the best interest of our students and staff in mind. Going forward, we will continue to consider opportunities to enhance security.

Regarding the recent incident at Cabot High School, we are now able to provide an important update. A suspect — a student of Cabot High School — has been identified and removed from campus. This student has admitted to making the threat and will face serious school consequences along with felony charges. Although the student claims there was no intent to harm anyone, the severity of the situation demands strict legal consequences.

In addition, it appears that several students may have known that this individual was involved, yet they did not provide that information to administrators or law enforcement. Those students will also face consequences.

We all want the same outcome — to keep our schools, students, and staff safe. Thank you for your vigilance, your understanding, and your continued cooperation.

In closing, I would like to thank our Cabot School District police officers, the Cabot, Austin, and Ward Police Departments, and the Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office for their support and assistance.