Threat to Palatine High School leads to added police presence on campus

There was additional police presence at Palatine High School on Wednesday after officials reported a threat referencing the school posted on social media Tuesday night.

School officials later said the unfounded threat appears to be an online hoax used against other high schools across the country. It was modified Tuesday to appear directed against Palatine High, officials said.

"Though the threat had not been deemed credible, out of an abundance of caution, there was an increased police presence at Palatine High School throughout the day Wednesday," according to a message from school officials Wednesday afternoon. "Any students involved in making threats or posting threatening messages toward District 211 schools face school consequences as well as legal repercussions for their actions."

Palatine Township Elementary District 15 Superintendent Laurie Heinz also sent a message to parents about the threat.

"I have made my principals aware of the post and, out of an abundance of caution, we will have our schools in close proximity to Palatine High School bring their children into the building as they arrive at school this morning," she wrote. "As you know, District 15 schools are a safe place for students, our staff, and their families - and safety will always remain a top priority."