A Chicago public elementary school added police security at arrival and dismissal times as authorities investigate a “potential threat” against a staff member, according a letter the principal sent to the community.
“We were recently made aware of social media posts with language that resemble a potential threat to a staff member,” Principal Dawn Iles-Gomez of Nathan Hale Elementary School wrote.
Chicago Public schools provided a copy of the letter after NBC News inquired about a viral online video showing a woman at a “No Kings”-related event Saturday gesturing to her neck as if she were holding a gun. Some people online thought the gesture was mocking the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Online users identified her as a CPS teacher.
A CPS spokesperson told NBC News that the district was aware that an employee was recorded at a protest this past weekend and is the subject of posts on social media. The spokesperson did not confirm whom they were referring to.
“Chicago Public Schools (CPS) remains committed to creating and maintaining a welcoming, safe, and inclusive teaching and learning environment, free from harassment, bias, or harm of any kind,” the spokesperson added. “While CPS does not comment on specific personnel matters the District follows a consistent process when allegations of misconduct are reported. Employees found to have violated Board policy are subject to disciplinary action.”
CPS also released a copy of the letter indicating threats had come its way.
“Out of an abundance of caution, CPD will provide us with additional safety support at our school’s arrival and dismissal tomorrow,” read the letter.
Below is the letter school officials sent to the larger Hale school community:
Dear Hale Parents, and Staff,
Safety continues to be my top priority, which is why I am writing to notify you of a situation involving our school. We were recently made aware of social media posts with language that resemble a potential threat to a staff member. We take all potential threats extremely seriously to ensure the safety of our school community. The Chicago Police Department (CPD) and the CPS Office of Safety and Security have been notified, and CPD is currently investigating this situation further. I will update you once the investigation is complete. Please know that we are taking this situation very seriously. Out of an abundance of caution, CPD will provide us with additional safety support at our school’s arrival and dismissal tomorrow.
Thank you for your continued partnership. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly.
Sincerely,
Principal Iles-Gomez
