'Writings Of Concern' Found On A Student's Folder

YORKTOWN HEIGHTS, NY — A Lakeland Copper Beech Middle School student was not in school Wednesday after an investigation into "writings of concern" that were found on a folder.

Dr. Karen Gagliardi, the Lakeland school district's interim superintendent, said in a letter to the community Tuesday that a staff member had seen what the student had written and brought it to the district's attention.

"The student had listed several students and staff members that they wished would be harmed," Gagliardi wrote.

She said an investigation was begun immediately in collaboration with the Yorktown Police Department.

Police interviewed the student and family members, conducted a detailed search of their home and determined the student did not pose a threat to the school.

No weapons were found, Gagliardi said.

The police department made additional referrals in relation to the investigation and said normal operations district-wide could take place Wednesday.

Gagliardi said the student would not be in school pending a superintendent's hearing.

She said that all comments that suggest a threat to the safety and security of the district are taken seriously.

"Any such statement comes with significant consequences, even if they are made jokingly and/or are deemed as not being credible," Gagliardi said.

The district will always act out of an abundance of caution to ensure all students and staff are safe both inside and out of district buildings, she said.