Swatting calls and e-mail messages occurring at local schools in our area today

Dear Mechanicville Families,

As you may be aware, there has been a series of “swatting” calls and e-mail messages occurring at local schools in our area as well as across New York State today.  As a reminder, “Swatting” is a term used to describe someone placing a “hoax call” or e-mail message to schools or 911 to report an emergency.

Our Mechanicville Schools have NOT been a target of this recent hoax.  However, if any of our buildings receive one of these calls or messages, the school will immediately implement the appropriate protocol within our Emergency Response Plan to ensure the safety of our students and staff.  All staff have been made aware of the situation and have been advised regarding what precautionary safety actions to take should we receive a call.  We will continue to monitor this situation.

Last, as a reminder, all buildings in our district always operate in a “lock out” state. This means that all doors are locked during the course of the school day to ensure the safety of all students and staff.  We will remain vigilant as the safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.  

Thank you,  

Kevin Kolakowski

Superintendent