Threat at Newberg School Determined Non Credible

A note was sent out Tuesday, advising parents and students of the situation.

Chehalem Valley Middle School Courtesy: newberg.k12.or.us

(NEWBERG, Ore.) - In spite of a spate of school shooting tragedies in the United States and abroad, a story from Newberg's Chehalem Valley School may serve as a reminder that kids will be kids, and every situation does not end in tragedy.

Claudia Stewart with Newberg Schools says the story is about having good policy and good communication. "What this is a result of is good people doing their work," she said. But she added that "enough misinformation got out" and that caused more than one Portland news agency to take note.

"This is more about middle school harassing behavior" Stewart said. She confirmed that a piece of paper with names was discovered, and that started a reaction last week that brought the matter into the public light.

A note was sent out Tuesday, advising parents and students of the situation.

Kathy Skimas, the Principal at Chehalem Valley, says the incident occurred last week in reaction to harassing behavior she says they are trying to eliminate at Chehalem Valley.

"This incident is generating rumors and misinformation, and while I am mindful of confidentiality issues, I want to provide you with accurate information and enlist your support."

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"Last week Chehalem Valley staff acted on what appeared to be threatening behavior involving a number of students. The incident was thoroughly investigated and school officials and law enforcement do not believe this was a credible threat to student and school safety."

Skimas says threatening behavior can stem from students who feel bullied or harassed at school.

"Incidents or behavior that jeopardizes a safe school – including bullying and harassing as well as threatening behavior – require immediate action. Chehalem Valley staff took steps promptly to ensure school safety, address discipline and notify the students involved."

Stewart says their policy stems from state and federal laws mandating they investigate anything at all that appears threat related, "There are very specific actions that school officials will go through" she added.