Lake County Gazette

Early on September 2, an anonymous student submitted a vague report through the Safe2HelpIL platform. The report did not include names or specific threats. School administrators at Limestone Community High School immediately reviewed the submission and notified the school resource officer. Later in the day, rumors about the report circulated among students and community members.

Limestone Community High School worked with the Bartonville Police Department to investigate these rumors. After their review, officials determined there was no credible threat to school safety at this time.

Keith Brown, Superintendent of Limestone Community High School, stated: "At Limestone Community High School, the safety of our students and staff remains our top priority. Thank you to those who reported the rumored threat. Please remember, school safety is everyone’s responsibility. If you see and/or hear something, say something and do something. It is important to remember to provide as many details and as much information as you can when reporting. Anyone can make a report regarding school safety to a trusted adult, school administration, teachers, school personnel, or via the Safe2HelpIL program."

Safe2Help IL offers a 24/7 helpline (1-844-4-SAFEIL), a free mobile app, and a dedicated website for confidential reporting by students about themselves or others. According to district communication: "Students can use Safe2HelpIL to share concerns about themselves or others in a confidential environment. Once vetted, the information will be immediately shared with local school officials, mental health professionals, and/or local law enforcement, depending on the nature of the tip. It is important to note that this program is not intended to punish, suspend or expel students. Rather, the intent is to encourage students to 'seek help before harm,' with the goal of intervening and helping students before they harm themselves or others."

The district said further updates would be provided if necessary.