JASPER, Ga. – Despite a heavy increase in social media traffic about Pickens County High School, Superintendent Dr. Carlton Wilson has confirmed with FYN as of 11:15 a.m. today, November 9, that no incidents or viable threats of such have occurred on school grounds.

A press release from the School System assured citizens that what was called a threat by some was investigated and the school is responding in spite of an investigation clearing the threat. Wilson stated that last night, the Pickens County School System became aware of potential threats on the high school. The press release stated, “After discussing last night’s investigation with the Sheriff, we have determined that the social media threat is not credible.”

Despite the investigation, the two entities have agreed to increase the Sheriff’s presence on school grounds throughout today and tonight to be safe. When FYN inquired further about the issue, Wilson said there was never a threat against the school itself, but instead was two students saying things and “posturing” against each other when friends and classmates became involved. As the two students became threatening each other, the issue blew up over social media including at least Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram.

Not even considered a bullying incident, Wilson said, “They have just had some history with each other. They’ve not gotten along.”

As the Sheriff’s office investigated the viability of these threats and mentions of weapons, Wilson said they found the students did not have access to such and have since cleared the threat. Though Wilson said there has not been disciplinary action at this time, he did say the school is remaining on the increased security today and is taking threats involving the schools seriously.

Read the school’s press release as follows:

After discussing last night’s investigation with the Sheriff, we have determined that the social media threat is not credible. However, in an abundance of caution,
there will be an increased security presence on the High School campus tomorrow. We would like to thank the Sheriff and his staff for their vigilance in
addressing this matter.

Information will be posted on the Pickens County School District website at www.pickenscountyschools.org, the Infinite Campus parent portal, district social media sites, and sent to local media.