SARASOTA, Fla. (WFLA) – Administrators made a last minute decision to shut down Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota on Monday after a threatening post appeared on Snapchat.

Over the weekend, school officials learned of a disturbing threat on Snapchat against the school. Police were notified and an investigation was launched.

“We take every single call like this seriously,” said Sarasota Police Department spokeswoman Genevieve Judge.

Late Sunday night, the Diocese of Venice notified parents that the school would be shut down on Monday as a precaution.

In a statement, the Diocese says, in part, “The safety and security of all students in the Diocese of Venice in Florida is always a top priority, and the Diocese appreciates the Sarasota Police Department’s immediate response to this matter.”

“If we don’t take it seriously and something were to happen then I guess we’d be in trouble,” said senior Dante Pascarella.

Pascarella was surprised to learn he had a three-day weekend, but he feels the reason is unfortunate.

“It’s very sad. My mom always told me to respect my life and also respect others so it is sad to hear about this and that we have to take these actions but I guess its just how the world is, not a perfect world,” said Pascarella.

Police do not believe the threat is credible and they say students are not in danger.

Pascarella believes there’s a lesson in this.

“We never know what someone is going through so it’s always just – be nice to people. Be cool, don’t give them a cold shoulder and just make them feel loved because that’s all people want,” said Pascarella.

A nearby elementary school was placed on a modified lockdown as a precaution.

Classes will resume normally on Tuesday.

The following was posted on the school’s Facebook page Monday evening:

Dear Cougar Families,Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School values its students and the commitment by the parents to providing a Catholic education, rooted in the Gospel Values of Jesus Christ. The school treasures this relationship and appreciates you entrusting your children to its care.As is known, the school was closed today, Monday, February 26, 2018, due to an alleged concern regarding a threat to the community. The Sarasota Police Department investigated the social media post and confirmed Monday morning that “there is no reason to believe there is a threat to Cardinal Mooney.” This is great news for our school and community.On Tuesday, February 27, 2018, the school will be open. For parental peace of mind, the Sarasota Police Department will ensure that an officer is present on the campus during the remainder of the week. Further, Cardinal Mooney will adopt added safety measures beginning tomorrow. These measures include:

  • Additional faculty/staff will be present at the main entrances to the school during arrival and dismissal times. The additional staff will be in place to monitor those entering and leaving the school.
  • All gates will be locked at the start of the school day, including the main gate through which visitor’s access the School Office.
  • A camera/doorbell will be placed at the main gate by Tuesday afternoon, so that anyone wishing access to the school must first announce themselves to the School Office. A staff member will then escort the individual to and from the School Office. Until the completion of the doorbell installation, a staff member will be stationed at the front gate.

The school, as you know, is in the final phases of the Selby Center renovations. These renovations will update the school’s security cameras, gates, fencing, and create a single point of entry for the campus. The anticipated completion of the project is East er. The contractors have been asked to expedite the remaining construction so as to provide an earlier completion of the new School Office.As these new safety measures are enacted, your help is requested to limit non-essential traffic at the school. Going forward, please do not bring forgotten homework, lunches, or other items to the school, as the gates will not be opened for these items. If lunches are forgotten, a meal will be provided to the student. Please work with your children to ensure they have the items they need for the day. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.While these past days have been stressful for the entire Cougar community, please know that your prayers, care, and concern are greatly appreciated.  Thank you for your dedication to  and concern for the community.  Mooney is a community who lives by God’s grace and works to ensure the safety and solidarity of all.May our Heavenly Father bless you during this Lenten Season.

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