Incident at Whitman Middle School over Facebook threats

On Wednesday morning at Whitman Middle School, a physical altercation happened between Whitman students and non-students. According to the Seattle Police Department’s report, a student and her mother confronted some girls who, the student claimed, were going to gang up on her. The daughter’s mother claimed the threats were made on Facebook. Seattle Police were called, and according to the police report, the family fled the scene but were later found a few blocks away. The mother was arrested for assault and booked into King County Jail.

Here is a letter that was sent home to parents:

Dear Whitman Parents and Guardians:

This letter is to inform you of an incident that happened today as students were starting classes. There was a physical altercation that involved several Whitman students and non-students. Our staff members intervened; at our request district security and Seattle police responded. The parents of all involved Whitman students were notified directly about this incident.

I want to assure you that our first priority is the safety of our students and staff. In an effort to help ensure the safety and security of our students and staff, we will be securing all non-essential entrances to our building and additional staff members will be supervising our halls before, during, and after school. All visitors, per building and district rules are required to check into the main office and wear a badge while on school grounds.

It is my understanding that the incident started and escalated due to Facebook postings. If your student has a Facebook page, please monitor the activity. If you or your student learns of any potential safety issues or threats to our students or staff, do not hesitate to notify us.

If you have any concerns, please contact me.

S. Kleitsch, Principal