Threat targets Kauai High

LIHUE — For the second time in a week, a threat toward a Kauai school was reported.

Bill Arakaki, state Department of Education Kauai Complex Area superintendent, said Wednesday that Kauai High School administration “was made aware this morning of a text message threat toward their campus.”

He said the Kauai Police Department responded immediately and the source of the threat was identified. Classes continued as scheduled.

“There was no imminent threat to their campus,” Arakaki said.

It was not known late Wednesday if an arrest was made.

All schools are on regular schedules today.

“We continue to provide services to ensure the social emotional health and well-being for all,” Arakaki said. “Counselors and school-based behavioral health personnel will be on hand to assist and support students and staff as needed at Kauai High School.”

He said all threats to schools and students are taken seriously. Terroristic threats are considered Class A student conduct offenses. Penalties can range from detention to dismissal with the possibility of arrest and serious criminal charges.

“We encourage parents to speak with their children about making the right choices and the potential consequences of their actions,” Arakaki said. “We urge all students and families to refrain from reposting threats and/or rumors online. According to law enforcement, reposting a threat is as good as making the threat itself, and contributes to prolonging the event.”

Last Thursday, a student at Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School allegedly made threats against the school and its students, prompting a police investigation and increased security on campus the following day.