Florida school districts send emails to parents after threats against school

TAMPA, Fla. – Pasco County and Hillsborough County school districts sent an email to parents Wednesday following recent threats against schools on social media that led to the arrest of several students.

According to the Pasco County Sheriff's Office, a student was arrested Wednesday morning for allegedly posting online threats against Wiregrass Ranch High School in Wesley Chapel.

Two teenage girls were arrested last week in connection with shooting threats at their respective Hillsborough County schools – Bloomingdale High School and Dowdell Middle Magnet School – according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.

In both cases, authorities confirmed that there was no danger to the schools. The investigations are ongoing.

Pasco County School District officials urged parents to explain to their children the consequences of such threats because in today's digital age, “social media and messaging platforms play a significant role in the lives of our children.”

“Help them recognize what a threatening message is. Explain the difference between jokes and threats, and emphasize that even seemingly harmless comments can be taken seriously,” the email says. “Please encourage your child to think critically before posting or sharing anything online. Ask them to consider the effect their words might have on others and avoid sharing harmful content.”

The Hillsborough County School District also advised anyone who hears anything suspicious to take action.

“We want to stress the importance of 'If you see something, say something,' and if a student or staff member sees or hears something suspicious, we ABSOLUTELY want them to report it,” the school district's email said. “If you receive such a message, please notify school administration or police so they can thoroughly investigate the case.”