Update: Social Media Threats

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Update: Social Media Threats

Dear MaST Families,

Below are updates on the ongoing social media threats:

MaST was alerted yesterday of images where MaST was mentioned on an Instagram account. The messages are from the username “PhillyClowns215.”

More information is now available from news outlets: http://6abc.com/news/phila-schools-police-taking-scary-clown-threats-seriously/1536124/

We are continuing to cooperate and notify the police of any additional information.

Here is what we do know so far:

  • There have been reports all over the country of clowns that are connected with child luring.

  • We have no information in regards to whether this is a credible threat or if this information is connected.

  • There was a rumored person dressed up as a clown on Boyle playground over the weekend and this was reported through a forum online.

  • We have received multiple pieces of information that mainly are tied back to the same two posts.

  • The posts do specifically name schools and MaST HS is mentioned.

  • It also specifically mentions a gang of 12 going to different schools after school lets out on Wednesday.

  • There are both charter schools and public schools name in the two posts.

What we are doing:

We are working with the police and homeland security for any updates. The school district has released a statement and everyone is taking the threats serious to make sure our kids are safe. Any information that we get or comes to us is being given to the police. We want to have eyes on our kids at all times and we want to make sure that anything that could be suspicious is reported to the authorities.

What we need you to do:

Please report anything suspicious to the police. Here is the tip line: 215-686-TIPS (8477).

If you see anything in the area of MaST, please let us know by either calling the front desk or by email: info@mastccs.org. This email is monitored frequently and is the best way to notify us. We want to make sure our school arrival and dismissals are safe.

Other tips for your child.

  • Walk in groups

  • If you are getting off a bus and walking home, be aware of your surroundings

  • If you are being picked up, wait with a group, or in a plain site area

Thank you for your cooperation,

John F. Swoyer III