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School leaders praise response to swatting incident; public urges continued support for LGBTQ students amid lawsuit
Summary
Following a swatting and bomb threat at a district high school, the chief school administrator thanked staff, students and multiple law enforcement agencies for their response. A public commenter urged the board to maintain policies protecting LGBTQ and transgender students despite pending litigation involving a board member’s spouse.
The North Hunterdon-Voorhees Regional High School District’s chief school administrator told the board on May 19 that staff, students and law enforcement effectively managed a swatting and bomb scare at one campus the previous day.
"It was scary, to say the least," the chief school administrator said, thanking faculty, staff and multiple police agencies for comforting students and securing the scene. The administrator said the district will apply lessons learned to improve emergency procedures and communications.
Board members praised the speed and clarity of communication sent during the incident. One member singled out Juliana for providing frequent updates, saying the office’s messages helped keep families informed as new information became available.
During the public comment period, a community member identified as Karen from Highbridge commended the district response and urged the board to “stay the course” supporting LGBTQ and transgender students. "You’re currently being sued by the husband of a sitting board member about parental rights and trying to revoke policies that protect LGBTQ and transgender students," the commenter said, warning legal costs could be significant.
Board members did not debate policy in response during the meeting; they noted the comment will be considered and that a response may follow if appropriate. The board also said personnel and legal matters are scheduled for executive session and action items will be revisited at the action meeting next week.
The board scheduled follow-up review of emergency communications and indicated more detailed reports and any recommended policy adjustments will be part of subsequent agendas.
