Bomb threats at I.V. High result in estimated $35,000 cost
From our weekly issue dated November 28, 2007
Six bomb threats at Illinois Valley High School are costing Three Rivers School District (TRSD) a minimum of $35,000 -- if addition of a new video surveillance system is included.
A $19,000 security monitoring system is being installed in connection with the sextet of warnings about explosive devices at the school in Cave Junction. And the remaining $16,000-plus comprises the estimated personnel and related costs to Three Rivers School District because of the threats.
No explosive devices were located, although searches were made all six times. Additionally, the school was evacuated twice; the other four times did not require evacuations because searches were made prior to the arrival of students.
The threats all arrived during the past few weeks; the most recent one on Nov. 15. No other bomb warnings have been received since.
Personnel from I.V. High, TRSD and Josephine County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) have been working to identify those making the bogus blast calls. One student was arrested in connection with the most recent threat, a written one; and other arrests are anticipated.
The $16,000 amount was cited by TRSD Superintendent Jerry Fritts. He told TRSD directors that they are comprised of costs for extra personnel, lost time, and mileage. TRSD personnel respond from Murphy to schools that receive bomb threats.
Additionally, IVHS staff and Fritts said that the indirect costs have not been calculated. For example, because of bomb threats, parents were given permission to keep their children home on the days designated. That resulted in several days of attendance at 65 percent.
It appears that the school year will have to be extended to make up the missed classes. That is an especially distressing situation for senior students.
Other costs not included include those of JCSO, Illinois Valley Fire District, and Oregon State Police.
Because of the warnings, student lockers have been placed off limits. As well, student backpacks have been searched when they arrive for classes; and adults are escorting students to restrooms because of threats found written in them.
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