Joseph R. Williams, Ed. D.

Superintendent of Schools

1560 Bloomingdale Road

Glendale Heights, IL 60139

Phone: 630/260-6100   Fax: 630/260-6103

            www.queenbee16.org

January 4, 2022

Dear Queen Bee 16 Families,

Earlier today, I informed you that we were investigating a social media-based threat made against Glenside Middle School. We immediately suspended attendance for the day, engaged the Glendale Heights Police Department, and they initiated their investigation. I can report to you at this time that GHPD was able to trace the social media-based threat to the individual who originated the post, and the individual will be charged with a Class IV Felony for Disorderly Conduct.  Additionally, the individual will be subject to the appropriate measure of school-based discipline as the posting of threatening messages is considered to be Gross Misconduct within the Illinois School Code.  The individual responsible for the original post is a minor and has a right to privacy. Therefore I cannot share additional details with you at this time.

Despite the alarming nature of these situations whenever we encounter them, I am grateful for the professionalism and skill of the Glendale Heights Police Department and grateful to the individuals who informed our school district at the moment they were made aware of the posts.  Our ability to safely and quickly resolve this situation, while maintaining a high level of safety for our students, and staff is entirely dependent on the resourcefulness of local law enforcement and the character of our community.  

This instance also serves as a timely reminder to have frequent conversations with our children about social media and remind them to report alarming posts immediately and that all threats will be taken seriously.  Please feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions, concerns or insights to share. 

Sincerely,

Joseph R. Williams, Ed. D. 
Superintendent

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