TikTok Challenge Hasn't Prompted Threats In Mahwah, District Says

MAHWAH, NJ — Superintendent Michael DeTuro was disappointed he had to write the letter, but he wasn't alone, as officials from across the country addressed the Dec. 17 TikTok challenge.

"It is rather unfortunate that we are at a time in this school year that we are in need to advise you that social media is becoming an unwanted presence for all communities," he said.

DeTuro was referring to a national trend, which appears to have originated on TikTok. Multiple law enforcement agencies across the country say they are monitoring reports of a challenge which has encouraged students to threaten gun violence at their schools on Friday.

Read more: TikTok December 17 Challenge Has Police, Schools On High Alert

"We have been made aware and are in comprehensive communication with our local police department regarding the national social media postings with the following hashtags: #december 17th, and #december17," DeTuro said, adding that "while there is no current credible threat against our school district, we want our parents aware so that they can monitor technology used by your children, and be vigilant towards words, postings, or rumblings around this posting."

"We know that, because of our outstanding working relationship with the police department, the attentiveness of our staff and administration, and the conscientiousness of our parent population, that we can continue to offer a safe and healthy learning environment for all of our children," he added.