Warren County Way cares

LISA HOBBS - News Editor

A scary, viral “Cat in the Hat” trend is wreaking havoc in schools across Tennessee and prompting panic amongst staff, students and parents.

Warren County Schools released the following statement:

“Warren County Schools has been made aware of another social media threat involving Warren County High School connected to the ongoing “Cat in the Hat” trend. This hoax has now become a widespread issue affecting schools across Tennessee.

“We want to be very clear: every threat involving one of our schools will be taken seriously. Every report will be investigated fully.

“School administrators, local law enforcement, and Homeland Security are dedicating significant time and resources to investigating each report and determining its credibility. Regardless of how frequently these posts occur or how widespread this trend becomes, that response will not change.

“We strongly encourage families to talk with students about the seriousness of creating, posting, sharing, or participating in threatening content online. What may be intended as a joke, prank, or participation in a social media trend can result in serious consequences. Individuals responsible for making threats will be subject to disciplinary action and, when applicable, legal consequences to the fullest extent allowed by school policy and law.

“We also ask students and families to continue reporting concerning information to a trusted adult, school administrator, or law enforcement. Please do not repost or share threatening content on social media; report it directly so it can be investigated.

“The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority. We appreciate the continued partnership of our families and law enforcement agencies as we work together to keep Warren County Schools safe.”

Warren County Way cares about the community and its residents, young and old, which is why we offer a creditable source for local news at no cost. We hope everyone takes this issue seriously. We also urge parents to talk to their children about the dangerous of online trends such as this and make them aware of the potential consequences. If the community works together, we can help protect our schools and our students.