William Penn Charter School was forced to close school and keep students home for the day on Feb. 21 due to a threat of violence made from “an individual known to our community.” 

According to the school’s spokesperson, Michael Petitti, school resumed the following day.

“Since learning of the incident, we have been working closely with law enforcement, security experts, legal counsel, and mental health professionals to address the situation and maintain the safety and security of our students, families, faculty and staff,” Petitti said. “The safety and security of our students, faculty and staff is our top priority. We have communicated regularly with our families, students, faculty and staff and will continue to keep these community members updated and informed.”

In a statement to the school community dated Feb. 23, middle school director Wilson Felter said students had returned to normal school routines, but urged parents to watch for signs of upset in their children.

“After some initial uneasiness, our students settled into the school day nicely, and we were pleased with their engagement and energy,” he stated. “Over the coming days and weeks, we encourage you to check in with your children in subtle ways…If there are significant changes in behaviors, such as sleep patterns or appetite, it may be that your children are experiencing an increase in anxious feelings.”

Police told the Local that no arrests have been made for the threats, which were delivered via email, and that an investigation is ongoing.