Update on Bathroom Incident at Sheridan Hill

Dear Sheridan Hill Parents and Staff,

I wanted to provide an update on the communication I sent earlier today regarding the comment that was found in a Sheridan Hill student bathroom. At this point, Principal Arroyo and School Resource Office Ballow are continuing their investigation by reviewing hallway videotape, looking at handwriting samples, and gathering as much information as possible.

It is important to acknowledge, however, that incidents like this can be challenging to investigate and even more difficult to resolve. We do not anticipate having more detail to share this evening, but we are confident that Sheridan Hill is safe to open for students and staff in the morning. There are no secondary pieces of evidence indicating the threat is anything more than a disruption, and we are all aware that similar incidents are currently popping up in districts across the country.

Finally, I did want to address why schools and law enforcement organizations tend not to release the specific words that are used when threats are made. Aside from typically being vulgar or upsetting in nature, the release of actual language can embolden offenders and encourage others who might want to see their words in the news or on social media. What I can say in this case, however, is that the threat was general in nature and did not involve any level of detail.

Please know that in the days ahead we will focus on safety, transparency, and creating a sense of calm that accurately reflects the kind, caring school environment that exists at Sheridan Hill.

Thank you for your trust—and look forward to meeting a special group of educators this evening at Grades K-2 Open House.

Matt Frahm
School Superintendent