A “lock-in open” status at Newtown High School has been lifted, according to emails sent to district parents, following an investigation this morning, Monday, February 23.

According to an email sent by Superintendent of Schools Joseph V. Erardi, Jr, to parents following the event around 9:50 am, “At approximately 8:15 am this morning, administrators at [NHS] were made aware of a suspicious note that prompted a lock-in open setting. A lock-in open maintains the teaching and learning environment, allows students, and staff  to leave the school, and limits visitors entering the building. Staff and students were immediately notified that the lock-in was not a drill, but that normal business within the school would continue.”

The superintendent went on to explain that an investigation with local authorities is being conducted “to ensure the safety of all students. At this time we do not believe there is any imminent threat to students or staff. However, we will remain in a lock-in setting as a precaution.”

A letter later sent to parents, just after 10 am, by NHS Principal Lorrie Rodrigue read, “We wanted you to know that we feel 100 percent confident that no safety threat exists at the high school. As a result, we have moved out of lock-in position and have resumed normal traffic to and from the school. While we understand any investigation raises anxiety, we worked quickly to ensure the safety and security of all staff and students.”