Threat At Howard High School Draws Increased Police: Principal

ELLICOTT CITY, MD — Officials said a threat at Howard High School prompted increased police presence at the school on Monday, Dec. 10. The threat reportedly circulated on social media over the weekend.

Principal Nick Novak called the cause for concern a "post that specifically referenced a threat to Howard High," in an email to families Sunday night.

"At this time, we have not identified a specific credible threat," Novak wrote. "However, there will be an increased police presence at Howard High tomorrow in an abundance of caution as we continue to investigate the post and the individuals responsible."

There were ar least three police cars at the campus in the 8700 block of Old Annapolis Road around 8 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 10.

The rumored threat came less than a month after a 12-year-old girl from Columbia was charged in connection with school threats that put Wilde Lake and Swansfield on alert in mid November.

Here is the letter from Howard High School Principal Nick Novak on Sunday, Dec. 9:

Dear Howard High Community,

This weekend, I received several communications from parents concerning a rumor/social media post that specifically referenced a threat to Howard High. The Howard County Police Department, HCPSS central office, and I are currently investigating the post. At this time, we have not identified a specific credible threat. However, there will be an increased police presence at Howard High tomorrow in an abundance of caution as we continue to investigate the post and the individuals responsible. I would like to thank the numerous individuals who took the time to contact me to share your concerns. It is this partnership that will keep our staff and students safe.

School safety is our utmost priority, and the members of the administrative team and security staff will continue to be vigilant in maintaining the safety of Howard High. Please know that we take all reports and threats seriously and will continue to work cooperatively with public safety and other agencies to ensure the safety of our students and staff. Under no circumstances will the HCPSS tolerate anyone creating a climate of fear for our students, families and staff.

I appreciate the individuals who shared their concerns about the rumor/social media post with me, reinforcing the importance of Dr. Martirano’s message of “see something, say something.” I encourage every student and family member to continue to reach out to me if you hear of any potential threats to the safety of our school community. If students have additional concerns and would like to speak to an adult, I encourage them to access Student Services or any staff member.

Thank you for your partnership in keeping Howard High a safe and nurturing place for our students.

Sincerely,
Nick Novak, Principal

Photo by Elizabeth Janney.