Update – 6/13/2022 9:45 PM
Sarnia Police Services has concluded an investigation into a note found inside a student desk at St. Patrick’s Catholic High School, which alluded to a threat to the school. Police have identified a student, who has cooperated fully with investigators and has confessed to the prank. There is no threat to school safety and the investigation is now closed.
“I want to thank Sarnia Police Services for their quick and thorough inquiry, and for reporting their findings to me this evening,” says Scott Johnson, Director of Education. “I know that this matter was upsetting for many and I am pleased to be able to now lay those concerns to rest. I also want to thank the St. Patrick’s school staff for their assistance in the police investigation.”
“As always, the safety of students and staff is the St. Clair Catholic District School Board’s first priority,” says Mr. Johnson.
The Board views acts of mischief such as this one very seriously and the school will be following up with the student who is responsible.
Original Post – 6/13/2022 8:20 PM
The St. Patrick’s Catholic High School community was notified in a letter this evening from the Director of Education that at the end of the school day today, a generic message alluding to a threat at the school was found in a classroom. The Sarnia Police Service was called immediately and began an investigation, which continues at this time. At this point, Sarnia Police do not believe the threat to be credible; nor do they advise that the school be closed tomorrow. Therefore, St. Patrick’s Catholic High School will remain open to students and staff on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.
The note was not directed at any other school communities in the area.
“As always, the safety of students and staff is the St. Clair Catholic District School Board’s first priority,” says Scott Johnson, Director of Education.
As a precaution, there will be an increased police presence in the area throughout the day tomorrow and access to the school will be limited to the front entrance only. In the meantime, police continue to investigate.
“Acts of mischief such as this one will be dealt with through the fullest extent of the law and the greatest measures possible under authority of the Board,” says Mr. Johnson. “Anyone with information is asked to come forward to the school administration or the Sarnia Police Service.”
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.