UPDATE: School Shooting Threat at Cody Middle School Results in Swift Action From Local Police and School Administration
Written by Jessi Entel on August 31, 2023
UPDATE: Superintendent Vernon Orndorff sent out an updated recorded call to middle school parents this morning.
The Cody Police Department investigated the report of a possible school shooting at Cody Middle School into most of last night and found that the threat was non-credible.
“After a through investigation, the Cody PD discovered that the two students involved fabricated the story,” said Orndorff. “As a result of this discovery, the parents of the two students have been notified and the students will not be on campus today.”
Orndorff continued, “We take this situation seriously and our primary concern is always the safety and security of our scholars, staff and community.”
All of the schools in Park County School District 6 will be in session with regular Friday scheduling.
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On Thursday August 31, around 4:30 p.m., the principal of Cody Middle School was made aware of a situation involving a potential threat.
A student overheard a conversation of two students that raised concern about a possible school shooting that would take place Friday, September 1 at the middle school.
School administrators, along with local law enforcement have been working together to investigate the situation. Although the information they received was vague, the situation has been treated with the utmost seriousness.
Superintendent Vernon Orndorff sent out a recorded message to all Cody Middle School parents to make them aware of the situation and what the plan of action will be for school in Park County School District 6.
“While consulting with the Cody Police Department, we have made the decision to increase police presence before, during and after school at Cody Middle School, as well as all schools in Park County School District 6,” said Orndorff.
“Out of an abundance of caution, this step was taken to ensure the safety of all of the individuals present on school grounds,” shared the Superintendent. “I want to reassure you that we will continue to work alongside the Cody Police Department. We will continue to actively investigate any such reports of alleged incidents while adhering to our district’s Comprehensive Emergency Plan.”
“We are fully committed to the safety, wellbeing and education of our students,” said Orndorff.
All schools in Park County School District 6 will remain open on Friday, September 1 with a regular schedule, but school officials respect any parents wish in attendance when it comes to their child’s safety.
The school district and local law enforcement are still investigating the situation.
Principal Jacob Gogan released a statement to all middle school parent shortly after the recorded call from the Superintendent.
In the statement, Gogan wrote “As the Principal of Cody Middle School, I want to ensure that you are fully informed about a situation that occurred earlier this evening and our proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of our students, staff, and community.”
Gogan also shared that, “Our relentless pursuit to create a safe and dynamic learning environment is unwavering, and we thank you for your continued support and partnership in maintaining a safe educational environment for our students.”
Any questions about the potential threat or about the Cody Middle School Emergency Response Plan, please contact the Cody Police Department or Cody Middle School.
