Dear Shadow Ridge Families,

We want to provide you with an update following today’s evacuation from Shadow Ridge Middle School and the reunification of students with their families.

First of all, I’m proud of the way our students and staff calmly exited the building and followed the evacuation procedures we regularly practice during the school year. All students and staff were safely evacuated from the building and transported to the Adams 12 Five Star Schools Educational Support Center where they were reunified with their families.

Thornton Police reports they found containers of ethanol at the school and a 13 year-old student has been arrested for interference with staff, faculty and students of an educational institution. Police have cleared the school for us to reoccupy. At this time, the police have determined there is no longer a threat to the school.

We will have school tomorrow, Tuesday, Dec. 11. Students should first report to third period to get their belongings. They will remain there for morning announcements and then go to their first period class. We will also have school counselors available for any student who would like to speak with them.

We understand the reunification process takes time to ensure all students are appropriately reunified with their families. We appreciate our families’ patience and support of the reunification process. It truly takes this partnership to keep our students safe.

I’d also like to thank the students and families who reported a concern to school administration this morning. We take all potential threats seriously and immediately alerted Thornton Police to further investigate the situation. This is a good reminder to talk with your child about the importance of reporting any safety concerns to a trusted adult.

We appreciate and value the strong partnership we have between students, staff, families and law enforcement to keep our school safe. I will continue to keep you informed of important issues at our school.

Regards,

Susie Wickham
Principal, Shadow Ridge Middle School