3rd threat in 3 days made against Kellenberg Memorial High School in Uniondale

Kellenberg Memorial High School in Uniondale was targeted with its third anonymous threat in three days Thursday, in what officials described as a series of false swatting calls.

The latest threat was reported just before 2 p.m. when Nassau County police told officials at the high school of a threat during the school’s eighth period, Kellenberg Principal Brother Kenneth Hoagland said in a message to parents.

The latest threat was similar in nature to threats made Tuesday and Wednesday mornings before class began. Each threat was sent via text message through a suicide hotline. One of the threats made to the school referenced bombs and armed intruders in the school. In each case, police searched the school and found the threat was unfounded.

“Please be aware, we are working cooperatively with the Nassau County Police Department to identify the ultimate source of these threats,” Hoagland said. “What we do know is that they are all similar in style, as they seek to disrupt normal operations.”

Police said the same type of threat was made to another school Wednesday. Officials did not identify any other schools targeted. At least one of the threats originated in Oregon, officials said.

Thursday’s threats referenced “danger inside and outside of the building.” Police asked students and faculty to shelter in place in classrooms while police searched the school, Hoagland said.

Police searched all classrooms, bathrooms and hallways with school administrators and students were told through announcements that police officers would be checking classrooms to ensure their safety, Hoagland said.

The pattern of swatting calls “intends to agitate and cause chaos,” Hoagland said. School officials said they would take every threat seriously.

“While safety is our priority, we are also responsible for your child’s education. Every decision we need to make will be for the welfare of your child,” Hoagland said.

Several parents said Thursday that the threats were concerning and caused undue fear with both parents and students.

The school plans to livestream its Opening Triumph of the Cross Prayer service Friday in its chapel  for students to watch in their homerooms, where they will remain until classes resume. No outside visitors will be permitted on campus Friday, officials said.

Kellenberg is also canceling events Wednesday and limiting classes to remote learning due to a rally scheduled by former President Donald Trump planned that evening at the Nassau Coliseum.

School officials urged parents to monitor their children’s phones and social media.

“Our administrators and faculty are working very diligently to ensure your child’s safety,” Hoagland said. "Unfortunately, some students are treating this situation lightly by sharing items on their social media that cause undue anxiety and fear.”

By John Asbury

john.asbury@newsday.comJohnAsbury

John Asbury is a breaking news and general assignment reporter. He has been with Newsday since 2014 and previously worked at The Press-Enterprise in Riverside, California.