September 18, 2024

Dear GNPS Parents/Guardians,

The Nassau County Police Department has been tracking a nationwide school threat circulating via social media which references a series of escalating incidents. This threat has impacted multiple states. Recently, it began circulating in our region. The origin has been repeatedly investigated and was found to be non-credible.

This morning we were made aware of this previously identified threat circulating amongst some of our students (concentrated largely at South Middle, Grade 7) on social media, specifically, SnapChat. We have been in contact with our partners in law enforcement. They are continuing to investigate this matter, however it is critical to understand that there were no specific threats made to any Great Neck school building.

Please rest assured that we take all matters of safety and security very seriously. We are working closely with our district security team, led by Mr. William Castoro, in partnership with both our local law enforcement agencies and the Nassau County Police Department of Homeland Security to ensure the safety of all students and staff. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

I commend our students who brought this matter to our attention this morning. We encourage all students, parents, staff and residents to: “See something, say something.” This is exactly what our students did – we applaud them, and are thankful the threat has been deemed to be non-credible.

Please use this opportunity to speak to your child about the safe use of all social media platforms and reinforce the “see something, say something” approach. It truly does “take a village” — we have a strong one.

Sincerely,

Kenneth R. Bossert, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools