Good Afternoon,
I am writing to follow up with our WUSD community regarding the situation that occurred yesterday at Watertown High School.
As you may know, the reported threat involved an individual who called the high school claiming there was a pipe bomb on the premises. Out of an abundance of caution, we evacuated students and staff, relocated to an off-site location, and worked through a reunification process while also adjusting transportation across the district. A thorough search of the building and surrounding area was completed, and no evidence of a bomb was found. In addition, all other buildings within the district were put into a cautionary hold limiting entrance and exit capabilities. All actions taken were a direct reflection of crisis management systems, collaboration with the Watertown Police Department, and district policy #6730 with the utmost intent of maintaining the safety and wellbeing of all stakeholders.
First and foremost, thank you.
There were many hands, school staff, district leaders, first responders, and our partners, working together in real time to ensure the safety of students and staff. The level of collaboration, care, and commitment was extraordinary. It is in moments like these that our values are not just words, they are lived. Our tradition of service, our willingness to lean into innovation when plans must adapt, and our commitment to transformation through continuous improvement were all on display.
This morning, district leaders connected with our partners at the Watertown Police Department and Maranatha Baptist University to debrief and reflect. Together, we identified what went really well, where we can improve or do things differently moving forward, and outlined concrete action steps. Just as importantly, we took time to express gratitude for the many individuals who went above and beyond in service of others. This is part of our commitment to transformation, being reflective practitioners who continue to learn and grow.
I also want to acknowledge that the reunification process can feel long and, at times, difficult. It is designed that way for a reason. Ensuring that every student is safely and accurately reunited with their family requires careful attention and time. Thank you for your patience, your understanding, and your trust in that process.
Please know that students, staff, and families are safe today. Classrooms are filled, learning is happening, and our staff are doing what they do best, serving students with care and purpose. That sense of normalcy is not accidental; it is the result of strong relationships and a shared commitment to one another.
Our district remains a great place because of our people. Because of the relationships we build. Because of the way we come together, especially in challenging moments, to support one another.
Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your continued support. We are grateful to serve this community together.
In Community & Education,
Jason Bull
Interim Co-Superintendent