OHIO — Sidney City Schools closed Monday, Sept. 22, after law enforcement identified a credible threat directed toward students and staff.
The district announced the closure early Monday morning through its website and an email to parents, saying the decision was made after consultation with police. Officials said the threat, discovered on social media, referenced “violence against children.”
A district spokesperson said they became aware of the threat around 5:45 a.m. and quickly notified families and staff. All schools in the district are closed, and staff were instructed not to report to work.
Students who attend Upper Valley Career Center may still report, but Sidney schools will not provide transportation. Absences will be excused if students are unable to attend, and they are asked to notify UVCC directly.
Sidney Police said they are working with the FBI and other local agencies to investigate and identify a suspect. Deputy Chief Aaron Rode emphasized that rumors of ongoing violence in the city are false and that there is no danger to the public at this time.
Lehman Catholic High School in Sidney is also closed Monday, not because of a direct threat, but due to its reliance on Sidney City Schools’ transportation services.
