Dear Omak Families and Community,
Thank you for your patience, support, and cooperation during today’s lockdown connected to the anonymous threat received at Omak High School.
Earlier today, Omak High School received a phone call threatening violence at the school. Out of an abundance of caution, Omak High School and Omak Middle School were placed in lockdown while law enforcement responded and investigated. We have since learned that similar information was reportedly received by a school in Spokane and a school in Idaho, which is consistent with what is often referred to as a “swatting” incident.
The safety of our students and staff is always our highest priority. Even when there are questions about whether a threat is credible, the Omak School District will always take the situation seriously. We will assume the threat is real and respond accordingly until law enforcement determines otherwise.
We are incredibly thankful for the outstanding response from the Omak Police Department, our School Resource Officer, and the additional law enforcement agencies (Sheriff, Fish and Wildlife, Tribe, and Brewster Police Departments) that responded so quickly to our campuses. Their response time, coordination, and presence provided immediate support and reassurance to our students, staff, and families.
We also want to thank our students, staff, and families for their calm and cooperation during an unusual and stressful situation. We know events like this can create worry for students, families, and our community. We appreciate your trust as we worked to communicate accurate information as quickly as possible.
Law enforcement completed its investigation and determined the reported threat was not credible. The lockdown was lifted, normal school operations resumed, and law enforcement remained on campus as an added precaution.
Thank you again to our law enforcement partners, first responders, staff, students, families, and community for working together to support the safety and well-being of our schools. We remain committed to ensuring that all students are safe, known, and prepared to reach their highest potential.
Sincerely,
Omak School District