Wootton principal Douglas Nelson sent a letter to the school community today following the bomb threat that caused the school to evacuate on Friday afternoon around 2pm, shortly before the scheduled dismissal time. Montgomery County Police announced they cleared the school at 3:35pm. The full letter can be seen below:
“Dear Thomas Wootton High School Community,
I am writing to provide an update and additional information regarding a bomb threat that was made today, Friday, January 12, 2024. At approximately 1:50 pm, the threat was called into the main office, which was promptly reported to administration. Wootton High School was, in turn, evacuated at 2:05 pm. The decision was made to evacuate the school to keep students and staff safe. Montgomery County and Rockville police partners promptly responded to the school, and the building was searched. The building was deemed safe for students and staff to return at approximately 3:15 pm. The investigation into today’s bomb threat is being handled as an active police investigation. Wootton and MCPS administration will continue to collaborate with them on this investigation. Lastly, today’s evacuation impacted our normally scheduled dismissal. Students who needed MCPS transportation home waited in the auditorium until all bus routes were sent back to the school to transport students home. All students were dismissed from school by approximately 4:30 pm.
It is unfortunate that another event has taken place at Wootton. Yet, I am pleased to share with you that today’s evacuation achieved its goal, which is to move our school to safe holding locations. A heartfelt thank you to Wootton staff and students, Montgomery County police, MCPS school security staff, and school system leaders for your support and leadership throughout this event. Your supportive and swift response helped us in numerous ways.
I would like to reaffirm a message I have shared before: I continue to believe that our school remains a safe place. We should be reassured that our protocols worked. I encourage you, as parents and caregivers, to speak to your child about how a bomb threat should never be called to a school. It is dangerous and negatively impacts others. Please speak to your child about being vigilant and proactive in maintaining a safe and secure environment. If you see something, say something. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to share them with a Wootton administrator and security staff. Your support is invaluable as we continue to ensure our school remains a safe and nurturing environment.
Sincerely,
Douglas Nelson, principal”