School threats are something Central Florida communities have seen far too often. Now, Osceola County officials are taking action by launching a new initiative to remind students of the serious consequences of making threats and empowering everyone in the community to speak up.
The Kissimmee Police Department and the School District of Osceola County have launched a School Threat Awareness Initiative to remind students, families and the community of the role everyone plays in keeping schools safe. The initiative provides practical guidance on recognizing concerning behavior, reporting potential threats and understanding what happens after a report is made.
To kick off the initiative, Police Chief Charles Broadway and School District of Osceola County Superintendent Mark Shanoff released a video stressing their commitment to protecting every student, every day.
“Keeping our schools safe takes all of us working together,” Broadway said in the video.
Officials are making clear that no threat will be treated lightly — regardless of the intent behind it.
“Threats made on social media, through text messages, at school or anywhere else are not jokes,” Shanoff said. “Every threat will be taken seriously and investigated every time.”
“Even a threat someone claims is not serious can result in school discipline and/or criminal charges,” Broadway added.
A public service announcement released alongside the initiative drives that message home.
“School suspension, criminal charges, a permanent impact on your future. Every threat, every time,” the PSA says.
Making a threat or engaging in other conduct that compromises school safety may carry serious consequences under Florida law, depending on the circumstances.
The message is resonating with the community. Claudia Mejia, who was walking young family members to school, said she welcomes the initiative.
“I think it’s good because we are more focused on the children and parents, and children feel safer,” she told News 6.
She is glad this message is being given to students because it will provide peace of mind to parents, and she feels it’s important to remind students they can always talk to a trusted adult.
How to report a concern
Students and community members are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior or threats right away through several channels:
- School administrators or staff
- A School Resource Officer (SRO)
- FortifyFL at getfortifyfl.com
- Local law enforcement
- 911, if there is an immediate threat to life or safety
Additional information about the School Threat Awareness Initiative, reporting options, and resources is available at kissimmee.gov/schoolthreats.