May 8, 2009
Windsor Southwest Supervisory Union
89 VT Route 103 South
Chester, VT 05143
Chester Police Department
556 Elm Street
Chester, VT 05143
PR Code #0809-01
Contact: Joan Paustian, Superintendent
Phone: (802) 875-3365
Contact: Richard Cloud, Chief of Police
Phone: (802) 875-2035
For Immediate Release
Chester Schools Close
Three schools in the Windsor Southwest Supervisory Union canceled classes on Friday as a precautionary measure following the receipt of an unspecified threat. Green Mountain Union High School and Chester-Andover Elementary, both in Chester, VT, as well as the Opportunities in Learning program in Cavendish, VT, were impacted by the closings.
On Thursday evening, May 8, a staff member received an electronic mail message referencing possible harm that may come to individuals at the high school during the following day. Chester Police officials were notified and an investigation began immediately. The decision to close three of five supervisory union schools on Friday was made after Windsor Southwest Superintendent, Dr. Joan Paustian, collaborated with Chester Police and district personnel. Chester-Andover Elementary was included in the closures due to its close proximity to Green
Mountain Union High School on Route 103 South. With transportation for these two schools suspended for the day, the Opportunities in Learning Program, in Cavendish, was also directly affected.
School officials indicate closing school was a necessary step to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff. Dr. Paustian explained,“When there is even the potential that our students are at risk, we will act accordingly; and we’ve done so in this case.”
Chester Police Chief Richard Cloud reports the individual responsible for the electronic communication has been identified. As the subject is a minor, the name is being withheld. Chief Cloud indicated, “…the investigation is on-going. We are unable to comment further, however no further threat exists regarding this matter.”
Normal operations for all three schools will resume on Monday, May 11.
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