No credible threat found at Pierce Elementary
Following a bomb threat made to Pierce Elementary School which closed the school on Monday, March 18, authorities determined there was no credible threat to the Pierce school community.
Earlier this morning, an email sent by Birmingham Superintendent Dr. Embekka Roberson, noting they received a bomb threat from a computer generated source that local law enforcement does not believe to be credible. However, “Out of an abundance of caution, we are working closely with the Birmingham Police Department to investigate the matter and will be closing school today at Pierce.”
Once the school was cleared, the Birmingham Police Department conducted a visual and canine sweep of the entire school in conjunction with law enforcement from Michigan State Police, Southfield, Farmington Hills and Warren, and determined there was no credible threat to the school or its community.
However, out of an abundance of caution, Birmingham police will continue to have an increased police presence at all schools.
Birmingham Police Chief Scott Grewe said thankfully, “It was nothing. A gentleman called, with broken English, who was hard to understand, last evening (Sunday) and said, 'In 10 minutes, a bomb will go off.' Taking all precautions, the school district when they heard it this morning decided to close the school.”
Roberson noted that Birmingham Public Schools has a strategic plan that “aims to create a culture of unity and well-being.
“The Birmingham Police Department, Birmingham Public Schools security staff, Pierce Elementary administration, and Pierce Elementary staff diligently ensured that the school was evacuated and that communication was shared promptly. Our facilities department worked with Durham Transportation to transport students participating in before-school activities to Greenfield Elementary. Our Pierce staff accompanied the students so they would feel safe. Our Greenfield and Chartwells Food Service staff welcomed the students and staff with open arms, providing them with snacks and a 'home away from home' environment,” she said.
Roberson noted it is unfortunate that “we live in a world where the right to attend school in a safe environment can be threatened. While I wish we lived in a different reality, it is heartwarming to know that Birmingham Public Schools is a caring community that will work together to ensure the safety of all students.”
Pierce Elementary School will be open for all students, teachers and staff tomorrow, Tuesday, March 19. Additional counseling staff will be on hand at the school.