RPS issues alert over Tik Tok challenge involving threats against schools

(ABC 6 News) – The Rochester Public School District has sent out an alert to families and caregivers in the district about a Tik Tok challenge that has emerged that involves students making threats of gun violence against school and staff on Friday.

The Rochester Public School District issued this notice:

Dear RPS Families and Caregivers,

This week, a nation-wide challenge has emerged on a social media platform called Tik Tok. This trend involves making threats of gun violence against schools, school staff and students tomorrow, Friday, December 17, 2021.

We are writing to let you know that Rochester Public Schools (RPS) and the Rochester Police Department are aware of this national threat circulating on social media.

Second, while RPS has not received any threats at this time, we take all threats very seriously and will follow our procedures which includes promptly reporting threats to local law enforcement.

We are asking our parents and caregivers to please encourage your student(s) not to participate in this Tik Tok challenge. This challenge is unsafe, disrespectful, and creates fear.

While the challenges are sometimes seen as jokes or pranks, students who are found to have participated will receive serious disciplinary consequences, such as suspension, expulsion, or criminal charges.

We thank you in advance for your support and partnership in education.

Sincerely,
Rochester Public Schools