Letter to Parents
To the parents of New Prague Area Schools students:

We wanted to send this letter home to you to help answer possible questions you still have regarding the closure of the High School and Middle School on Monday, May 2. It is important to take the time to dispel fears or concerns regarding the safety of our schools, as well as inform you of what ways we are offering education and support for your child.
We take any threat of violence with utmost seriousness and will investigate any and all claims to the fullest, until law enforcement authorities are satisfied. The safety of your child is our main concern and our handling of these types of situations reflects that concern.
On Friday afternoon (April 29) administrators were alerted to the possible threat of violence in our schools planned to occur on Monday, May 2. An extensive and thorough investigation began immediately with administrators as well as New Prague Police.
That investigation led to the interviewing of more than 50 students and parents, lasting until Monday morning. The investigation showed, unequivocally, that not one witness ever heard a verbal threat or read a written threat. No proof of any planned violence within our schools has been uncovered by authorities, who have said that no charges will be brought against anyone because no evidence of a threat was found.
Late Sunday night, it was determined to close the High School and Middle School, even though the investigation was showing that a threat did not exist. We did this to acknowledge the fear and anxiety that had spread throughout the community, to err on the side of caution.
In the simplest terms, we have dealt with a rumor that progressed rapidly through the student body over the weekend using several different forms of electronic communication. Once that communication began going through its channels, a mass hysteria ensued. With the talk focusing around the Middle School and High School, we felt it best to close both buildings for the day.
Now that we have gone through this ordeal, the question before us is how we use this event as a learning tool.
Superintendent Dr. Frankie Poplau addressed staff members on Monday and the staff spoke with the student body when they returned to school Tuesday morning.
Students were briefed about the importance of coming forward to report violent behavior, violent words or violent writings, but it was also stressed that they need to bring that information to staff members, parents or administrators. We cannot stress
enough how pleased we are that some of the students brought their concerns forward on Friday. This is a great example of how we can continue to keep our schools safe.
The students were also told that rumors of this sort are taken very, very seriously and will be investigated thoroughly by law enforcement officials as well as school administrators. Communicating or exhibiting violence will not be tolerated.
This incident has obviously affected the entire district and while we are ecstatic that it turned out to be just a rumor, we also want to be able to learn from it, in terms of how instant communication can be a detriment when not used properly.
We live in a world that is filled with fear and instant communication. When the two entities cross paths in a negative way, the result can and will produce undesirable results.
We as a school district cannot understate how committed we are to ensuring the safety of your child. We welcome any questions you may have on this matter or any others regarding school safety.

Superintendent Dr. Frankie Poplau – (952-758-1701)

High School Principal Tom Doig (952-758-1201)
High School Assistant Principal Steve Collins (952-758-1223)

Middle School Principal Tim Dittberner (952-758-1401)
Middle School Dean of Students Brad Gregor (952-758-1408)

Intermediate School Principal Joan Anderson (952-758-1501)

Primary School Principal Pat Pribyl (952-758-1601)