“It kind of seems like nerve wracking, like you never know when something can happen or something can be said. It’s a scary thing to think of, that could happen.”
Threats aimed at local schools seem to be happening more frequently and in the cases of Greater Johnstown and Westmont hilltop even keeping kids out of class.
This has led to some students thinking about their own safety. One student at Richland high school tells me he’s confident that his school is prepared for the worst case scenario.
“I feel really safe when I come to school. We have a lot of staff that really protects us, along with the police station being right next to us.”
Other students from Conemaugh Valley note they understand to an extent, how these situations may come up. Some say they believe that social media is playing a big factor.
“I just think it’s crazy that things can change that dramatically for people at one point to not really think that threats made in a school could really happen, to a point where everyone is preparing.”
“I think cyberbullying is a huge thing and kids feeling like they’re alone.”
Others say they are concerned that threats may hinder their ability to learn, despite having the ability for online classes.