On May 7, 2009, Elk Plain School of Choice and the Bethel School District were notified about a video called the “Top Six Ways to Kill Piper.” We learned about this from a concerned parent, whose daughter appeared to be targeted in the video.

Because the incident took place at home and not on school property, staff at Elk Plain School of Choice immediately notified the Pierce County Sheriffs Office. The Bethel School District and Elk Plain School of Choice do not have jurisdiction over activities that occur off campus. Once police were involved, the school and the district needed to proceed carefully, so that we did not jeopardize a potential law enforcement investigation.

When this matter impacted the student’s ability to attend school, the district took immediate steps to appropriately discipline the students who had created the video. Since then, these students have expressed their remorse.

The Bethel School District and Elk Plain School of Choice have always maintained a zero tolerance policy for threats made against our students and staff. We take all threats very seriously. The safety of our school and especially our students is our foremost priority.

We believe that Elk Plain School of Choice has been and will continue to be a safe place for all students to learn.

The following sites contain great information about cyberbullying, as well as other tips for helping children stay safe on the Internet.

www.ikeepsafe.org

www.netsmartz.org

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