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School canceled for MSAD6, Portland High School, Thursday after alleged social media threat

Superintendent Paul Penna does not believe the threat at Bonny Eagle High School is credible but is still taking precautions

STANDISH, Maine — School officials at Bonny Eagle High School are taking precautions Wednesday due to a "concerning" Snapchat.

According to Superintendent Paul Penna, a photo of someone writing "I will shoot up the school Thursday, September 30th" on a white wall is circulating in Maine. Penna said he does not believe this to be a "credible threat" because it could've been taken on any white wall in America, but has still decided to cancel school on Thursday and involve police.

Officials originally looked into the threat because students are taking screenshots of the original picture and sharing it on their own accounts, with some adding Bonny Eagle references. Students from other districts have been talking about the threat, too, Penna said.

Penna said his staff has searched the entire high school and has not found this specific message on any walls.

The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation. 

Portland High School will switch to remote learning Thursday because of the same threat, a school spokesperson said Wednesday evening. 

All after-school activities will also be canceled. 

Other public schools in Portland are not considered at risk and will be open as usual Thursday, including the Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS).

The Portland Police Department is helping the high school with the investigation.

Old Town High School also said it would not have school Thursday due to a threat. Old Town police say this threat was not on social media and is not believed to be connected to the other ones. 

Good Evening. There will be no school tomorrow, Thursday, September 30th at Old Town High School due to a threat to...

Posted by Old Town High School on Wednesday, September 29, 2021

South Portland High School principal Tim Matheney sent an email to parents Wednesday night, saying school officials are aware of the two threats going around neighboring schools but does not believe either to be a credible threat to the district. School will go on as planned in South Portland on Thursday. 

NEWS CENTER Maine is working to confirm more information. This story will be updated.

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