GISH Responds to Social Media Threat

The following email was sent to GISH patrons from the principal regarding an online threat.

Dear GISH Families,

We wanted to provide an update for you regarding a social media issue taking place outside of school.

This evening, a student reported seeing a concerning social media post circulating in a number of threads on the Discord platform. The concerning post makes a threatening comment towards our school. We’ve confirmed that the concerning post has been seen by a number of GISH students. Understandably, this situation is upsetting not only to our students but to us as educators. However, we are grateful that a student reported the concern as we consistently remind our Islanders, “if you see something, say something”.

Even though much of the social interaction is taking place outside of school, when we receive a report from a student, we take it seriously. As soon as we received the report, we contacted the Grand Island Police Department (GIPD) to investigate the situation.

At this time, GIPD has advised there are no credible threats towards our school.

GIPD has also indicated that the investigation is ongoing. We will continue working with GIPD every step of the way to ensure all facts are verified.

We shared this timely update with you for two reasons:

 1. So you may be aware as early as possible about the social media conversation that’s circulating so you may speak with your student about it.
 2. To share reminders about the safety protocols we take to keep our students, staff, and school safe. 
Please Note: GIPS has a strict policy on students using threatening language whether meant as a joke or real. Incidents of this manner will result in automatic suspension and could end with a recommendation for expulsion for the student(s)who are confirmed to be involved.

However, the sharing of threatening social media comments is concerning.

We ask that you have a direct conversation with your student about this matter. Please share these reminders:

 • Please report to one of the GISH Staff if you hear anything that concerns you or encourage your student to speak to a teacher, counselor, or Principal. 
 • Sharing threatening messages through social media is upsetting behavior and can carry legal consequences.   
 • Saying threatening things through social media will be treated the same as if someone says them out loud.  And when they relate to our students and to school, we will investigate all reported concerns. 
 • We want to be mindful of our actions and the consequences involved when using our cell phones and internet access to share things about ourselves and others.

Families – we must partner together in this vital work of helping our students learn how to navigate their relationships and how to be their best selves online.

Also note: Due to the sensitive nature of this incident and out of protection for student identities additional details are confidential.

Our leadership team, counselors, and social worker are available to provide support to you and our students. If you have questions, please reach out to me directly at [email protected] or (308) 385-5950.

Thank you for your support,

- Calvin G. Hubbard
GISH Principal