Additional security measures have been put in place at Ursuline College Chatham (UCC) following some posts made on social media.
According to a letter sent to parents and guardians on Thursday, school officials recently became aware that certain individuals have posted their intent to obtain and wear UCC student uniforms in an attempt to gain entry to the school.
The letter alleges that it is the same individuals that were responsible for the school briefly being placed in a hold and secure on Tuesday afternoon.
"The school is taking this matter very seriously. Effective immediately, enhanced safety protocols are in place, including restricting the number of access points to the school and increasing supervision at entry doors," read the letter. "Students are encouraged to remain on school property during lunch rather than leaving the campus, where there is no supervision."
Letter sent to parents and guardians at Ursuline Catholic College on December 9, 2021
In an update on Wednesday following the hold and secure, Chatham-Kent police said a 15-year-old Chatham youth was removed from UCC property after officers were called to the school a couple of times because of an unwanted group of youths who refused to cooperate with school officials when they were asked to leave the property. No charges were laid.
According to the letter, a police investigation is underway and the Chatham-Kent Police Service is working with school administration.
"A letter was sent home by the school," said Chatham-Kent Police Public Information Officer Renee Cowell confirmed to CK News Today. "Police take these matters very seriously and are working with school officials to ensure the safety of all students and staff. Police will be maintaining a presence in the area."
Citing the ongoing police investigation, a spokesperson for the St. Clair Catholic District School Board declined to comment any further beyond what was included in the letter sent to the school community.
"We understand that situations such as this can lead to increased feelings of uncertainty and anxiety," the letter read. "If your child is experiencing any form of apprehension, please have them reach out to their vice-principal for support."