Alleghany Highlands Public Schools have returned to normal operations after a lockdown was initiated at Covington Middle School earlier today. All other schools were under shelter in place as an added precaution to ensure student and staff safety.
School officials and law enforcement acted quickly after receiving reports of a CMS student with weapons. The student was quickly located and is now in the custody of law enforcement for further questioning.
The investigation was initiated after several CMS students reported the student to school administrators. Within minutes, CMS was placed on lockdown, and parent notifications began.
“We cannot commend these students enough for quickly notifying our administrators. We again say that it’s a community effort to keep our schools safe and the quick action by these students is a prime example of that. We also commend the prompt action by our school administrators and law enforcement. We take the safety and well-being of our students very seriously,” said Kim Halterman and Melinda Snead-Johnson, leaders of AHPS.
“We are aware that there are rumors that there was a gun found on school property and that a threat of violence was reported Sunday evening to school leaders. Both of these rumors are incorrect,” Halterman and Snead-Johnson said.
As always, students, parents, and the general public are reminded to report any perceived threats to students or school staff to school administrators and law enforcement. The school administration and the Covington Division of Police are continuing to investigate the situation from earlier today. Persons with additional information should call (540) 965-6333.
“We commend our staff and our law enforcement partners for swift response and keen focus,” continued Halterman and Snead-Johnson. “As always, AHPS reminds the community to attend to official AHPS communications for the most accurate available public information. In any form of emergency, AHPS staff and law enforcement first focus on student and staff safety.”