Dist. 123 Schools Closed Friday Due To Threatening Email Directed At Kolmar

OAK LAWN, IL — All Oak Lawn-Hometown Dist. 123 elementary schools are closed due to a “serious safety issue.” There will be no e-learning.

In a message to parents posted on the district website, Supt. Paul Enderle said several staff members received "a very serious and threatening message” directed at Kolmar Elementary School.

“Out of an extreme abundance of caution, and in close coordination with the Oak Lawn Police Department, all District 123 schools will be closed today, Friday, January 30, 2026.”

Oak Lawn police are actively investigating the threats, and Dist. 123 is cooperating with police. Families and students should not come to any school buildings under any circumstances Friday unless specifically directed by the district or law enforcement.

“We know this kind of message is upsetting. Our priority is the safety of students and staff, and we will continue to communicate clearly as we learn more,” Enderle said in an email to parents. “We will send another update later today, even if the investigation is still ongoing.”

Enderle told Patch that after working with Oak Lawn police, they both decided to make Friday an e-Learning day. Police are working to determine if the threat was legitimate or a swatting incident, when fake threats are made to instill fear and disrupt routines.

"I think we've got a good plan," the district superintendent said. "We're working cooperatively with Oak Lawn police."

Enderle did not know if a student sent the threatening email.

Patch has reached out to Oak Lawn police for more information.

Parents and students who may have more information are asked to contact the Oak Lawn Police Department at (708) 422-8292.

~ All Dist. 123 schools are closed for an 'emergency' Friday, Jan. 30. There is no e-learning as was originally reported.

~ This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.