Threat At Henry C. Beck Middle School 'Not Credible: Officials

CHERRY HILL, NJ — The threat to Henry C. Beck Middle School was deemed not credible, but the school remained on lockdown until 3 p.m., when students were dismissed, school officials said Wednesday afternoon.

"All bus riding students are asked to ride the bus home as usual to allow for the most efficient dismissal possible," officials said in a post on the district's website.

Police will continue their investigation into the source of the threat, which was received just after 11 a.m. The nature of the threat has not been disclosed.

Earlier in the day, a police dispatcher told Cherry Hill Patch the situation was "under control," but wasn't able to provide any further details.

In a video posted on the school district's website, Cherry Hill Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Meloche asked parents not to try to come to the school.

"All children are accounted for, and are safe and secure," Meloche said in the video.

He said parents were being stopped on Cropwell Road, and were being prevented from going to the school. They were gathering at Temple Beth Sholom, but he said there was no need to try to get to the school.

"I anticipate a normal dismissal from school," Meloche said, adding that the district would alert parents when the lockdown is over.

During a lockdown, the school follows these procedures:

• 1.School staff conducting outside activities relocate to an alternate site off school grounds.
• 2.Exterior doors remain secured.
• 3.No one is permitted to exit or enter the building.
• 4.School staff remain in their classrooms and office areas.
• 5.Classroom doors and windows are secured and there is no change of classes.
• 6.Lights are turned off and silence is maintained.
• 7.Students are relocated, out of sight.
• 8.Staff take measures to communicate if an emergency exists at their location.

"The police remain on site at the school, along with Cherry Hill Public Schools Director of Security Tony Saporito," Principal Sidney Dawson said in the statement on the school's website. "The safety of our students and staff is our top priority. We will update you when the lockdown is lifted."

Henry C. Beck is one of three middle schools in the Cherry Hill Public School District. There are a total of 19 schools in the district.