LAGRANGE, Maine — Schools in the MSAD 31 district were closed Thursday due to a potential threat made against Hichborn Middle School.
Superintendent Darcie Fournier said in a letter to the community that a staff member alerted administration of the potential threat Wednesday evening. Law enforcement was immediately notified and responded quickly and protocols and procedures were followed.
The potential threat was reported to police at about 7:55 p.m. Wednesday, noting that several concerned parties informed school officials that a student was going to bring a gun to school Thursday, Maine Department of Public Safety Shannon Moss said in a news release.
"It was learned that the statement was made from one juvenile to another, while they were attending an after-school practice, outside school hours," Moss said. "The juvenile was identified and he and his parents were interviewed by investigators."
In order to allow time for an investigation, and to keep students and staff safe, all schools in MSAD 31 were closed for the day. Fournier said. Parents were notified of the potential threat via call, email, and text.
"Please know that we take these threats seriously," Fournier wrote in the letter. "Administration continues to work closely with law enforcement officials to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure student safety."
The letter stated that students, parents, and staff can reach out to school counselors for assistance if they need support navigating frightening incidents such as these.
Fournier said it has been determined it is safe for students to return to school on Friday, Sept. 1.
No criminal charges are being filed, Moss said.