A report today, Sept. 20, of a student with a weapon at Kents Hill School in Readfield precipitated a lockdown. Officials searched the campus and no weapon was found.
Three other schools in Readfield also went into lockdown.
Message from Kents Hill School:
Earlier today, we received a report that an unknown student claimed to have a weapon on campus. We immediately consulted with law enforcement and directed students to leave all belongings in their respective classrooms and report to the Bodman Performing Arts Center (day students) and individual dorm rooms (boarding students) for attendance. All employees in conjunction with law enforcement conducted a thorough search of campus including student belongings and shared spaces.
All student belongings and spaces are clear, and students are currently assembling in the Bodman Performing Arts Center for an address by the Head of School. Classes and school obligations have been suspended until after lunch (12:35 p.m.). We recognize that members of our community will respond to this situation in a number of different ways, all of which are normal. The Health Center is available to provide any additional support and a number of safe spaces across campus.
Safety and security is our most important priority, and we thank you for your patience and understanding during this difficult time.
From Jay Charette, Superintendent of Maranacook Are Schools/RSU #38:
At approximately 10:30 this morning we were made aware of a potential situation in a neighboring school. Although the situation did not involve RSU 38 schools directly or indirectly, out of abundance of caution the decision was made to lock down Maranacook Middle and High School as well as Readfield Elementary school. Staff was notified as quickly as possible in all buildings and protocols were followed within the buildings.
Fortunately, we were notified at approximately 11:05 of an all clear at the neighboring schools and immediately we lifted the lockdown protocols.
Thank you to the staff, students, and families for their cooperation in what amounted to a short lock in period of less than 40 minutes. Their priority on student and staff safety in our schools allowed us to respond, access, act and lift our protocols in an efficient and timely manner.
If you have any questions or concerns they can be directed to the appropriate school principal.
