Security upped after Wantagh High School threats

Wantagh High School and Middle School were evacuated for the second time in three weeks on May 21 after a threatening message was found on a boys’ bathroom wall at the high school.

According to an email message sent to parents by Superintendent Maureen Goldberg, police were contacted, and conducted an investigation. As a precaution, students from both schools were moved to the high school football field while police searched, and Beltagh Avenue was blocked off.

Just a day later, another message was discovered in the high school when students were about to be dismissed. Police searched the building and deemed it safe for after-school and evening activities.

On May 1, both schools were evacuated after a threatening message was written on a bathroom wall at the high School.

“This is a very serious situation that requires that further measures be taken,” Goldberg said.

Last Friday, high school students cleared out their lockers during ninth period. The lockers were then sealed, and will remain secured for the remainder of the school year.
As of Tuesday, new security cameras were scheduled to be in operation, and the following new rules apply at the high school:

• No backpacks or large bags will be permitted in school.
• All books and personal belongings must be enclosed in a clear bag.
• All bags will be checked as students enter the high school in the morning and when they return to the building after lunch.
• All restroom access will continue to be limited to one boys’ room and one girls’ room. Everyone using either bathroom will continue to be required to sign in and out. 

Nassau County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $5,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for the messages.

“Parents, please speak with your children,” Goldberg said. “If they have any information, they have a moral responsibility and a legal obligation to say something to the police or to a school official. Thank you for your continued understanding and support. We will, of course, keep you informed as information becomes available.”