Community Update on Friday, March 7, 2025 (Click here to read this update in Spanish)
Police and school leaders have concluded their investigations and confirmed that there is no credible threat to school safety despite a threatening message sent by an Ottiwell scholar that was reported to local authorities the morning of Wednesday, March 5. We are pursuing disciplinary action for the scholar involved.
We wish to thank the New Bedford Police Department for their swift action Wednesday and the attention and care they showed this serious matter.
We do wish to clear up some misinformation that was shared on social media.
- No one was arrested at Alma, nor were any arrests made in connection with this incident.
- At no time were Ottiwell staff or scholars placed in lockdown and no staff or scholars were harmed.
- The emergency response drill that was held at our Douglass Campus on Wednesday morning was pre-planned. Douglass staff and scholars knew a drill was going to occur this week, and had been fully communicated with regarding the school’s procedures and the purpose of the drill.
Family Email sent on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 (Click here to read this letter in Spanish)
Dear Ottiwell Campus Families,
I am writing to inform you that there was police presence on our campus today to support an investigation into a threatening message sent by a scholar. Our initial investigation has indicated that there is no credible threat to scholar safety. Alma del Mar will operate normally today, March 5, 2025. We will continue to work with local law enforcement to complete the investigation.
We understand that news of any potential threat can be alarming. Please be assured that the safety and well-being of our scholars remain our highest priority. We are continuing to work closely with law enforcement to fully resolve this matter.
While the initial assessment suggests no credible threat, we are maintaining vigilance and will complete a thorough review of the incident. We will provide any relevant updates as the investigation concludes.
In light of this situation, we ask for your cooperation in the following ways:
- Please contact school administration if you or your scholar receives a report of concerning information.
- Please refrain from spreading unverified information on social media, as this can cause unnecessary concern within our community.
- Use this as an opportunity to remind your children about the importance of reporting any concerns to trusted adults.
Our counselors are available for any students who may need support. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact the school.
We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to maintain a safe and secure learning environment for all our scholars. Thank you for your trust in Alma del Mar.
Sincerely,
Taylor DeLoach
Executive Director