Public schools throughout Montclair, New Jersey were closed Monday “due to a security concern,” district officials said, though by midmorning the threat had been “neutralized.”
“Late yesterday evening, we were made aware of a potential threat to our district,” Interim Superintendent of Schools Damen Cooper wrote in a note posted to the district’s website at about 5 a.m. “Upon receiving this information, we immediately contacted the Montclair Police Department and have been closely following their guidance.”
Police advised the district to close all schools until the potential threat could be addressed, Cooper wrote.
“At this time, I am unable to share specific details regarding the nature of the threat,” he continued. “However, please know that we are working collaboratively with law enforcement to monitor the situation and ensure the security of our schools.”
Just after 9:30 a.m. he issued an update, saying that “through the diligent efforts and collaboration with the Montclair Police Department, the threat we were addressing has been neutralized.”
He did not elaborate on the nature of the threat, while acknowledging the “anxiety and disruption for our entire school community” that the move had undoubtedly caused.
Montclair Mayor Renee Baskerville said she was closely monitoring the situation and in constant contact with both school officials and the police department, emphasizing that there was no immediate danger.
“I want to make clear to our community that the school closings today are a precautionary measure, and there is no immediate threat,” she said in a statement Monday.
Montclair is about 20 miles west of New York City.
“Please know that every step taken was guided by our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families,” Cooper said. “Your safety remains my highest priority. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support throughout this time.”
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