'Our Children Are Safe', Police Say After Horsham School Threats

A threatening call placed to Simmons Elementary School in Horsham on Monday morning shut down the school, along with Hatboro-Horsham High School, for a few hours, the Horsham Community Policing Initiative said.

Horsham Police responded to the threat and evacuated both buildings immediately, officials said.

“I know this is unnerving but please hang in there,” Horsham ChATs posted on their Facebook page. “Our children are safe and there are officers at both schools. Please do not come to either school until instructed to do so.”

Once the properties were determined to be safe, the lockdown was lifted at about 10:30 a.m. and classes resumed, according to officials.

The nature of the threat is unknown at this point, police said.

Officers were sent to schools in both Hatboro and Horsham as a precaution, according to officials.

Parents commenting on the Horsham ChATs Facebook page expressed gratitude and relief.

“Longest 25 minutes of my life...thank you for all updates,” wrote Diane Pachella Nelson.

“A subtle reminder how much we depend on and need our police department,” wrote Tom Plefka. “Most of them are parents too.

Hatboro-Horsham High School graduation is still scheduled for Monday evening.

This is a developing story. Please check back for more information as it becomes available.

(Patch file photo)