CHS LOCKDOWN UPDATE TONIGHT FROM SCHOOL DISTRICT

This update was issued tonight from the Board of Education on the Columbia High School lock down today. It reaffirms our earlier report that one student was arrested with brass knuckles, but with new information that another person involved was a former CHS student still at large who reportedly had a knife. 

No identities were revealed:



James G. Memoli                                              Elizabeth Aaron Acting Superintendent                                                     Principal, Columbia High School

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November 10, 2014

To the SOMSD Community,
Shortly before 1 p.m. today, a code red “lockdown” was ordered at Columbia High School. High school administration had been informed of a potential threat involving a CHS student and a former CHS student possibly involving weapons.  The administration notified the Maplewood Police who then initiated the code red as a precautionary measure.  South Orange Police were onsite to assist.

The police conducted an organized search of the building and one student was apprehended. The police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this event. Code red procedures were followed with police going door to door to check all rooms before clearing the code red.  Many students were outside the school because the lockdown began during a lunch period.  Security guards and administrators were outside with the students.  Nobody was harmed during this event.
We appreciate the cooperation of the police departments, the staff, the students and the building administrators.  Parents and guardians of our students can be assured that the school administration works closely with and cooperates fully with law enforcement during such an event.  The safety of our staff and students remains our first priority. 
Sincerely,

James G. Memoli                                                            Elizabeth Aaron
Acting Superintendent                                                  Principal, Columbia High School