South Portland, Maine, School Goes Virtual Over Social Media Threat

A South Portland middle school switched to virtual for most students Wednesday, due to a threat made on social media.

Superintendent Tim Matheney said the threat was not related to active shooting incidents reported at ten Maine schools Tuesday, which all turned out to be false, according to Maine State Police.

"Out of an abundance of caution, we are pursuing this plan to provide the Police Department additional time to investigate a concerning social media threat last night. We appreciate the swift action of the South Portland Police on this matter," Matheney said in a statement sent to parents. He did not disclose the nature of the threats.

Grades 6-8 were virtual for classes Wednesday, while classes were canceled for 5th graders.

"Clearly, this is a difficult time for our schools in Maine and throughout the nation. Please know that we work diligently every day to provide a safe and secure environment for each of our students. I encourage you to reach out to your principal or school counselor if there's any way we can provide additional support to your child," Mathney said.

Portland High School and Sanford High School were among the schools involved Tuesday.

Commissioner of Maine Department of Public Safety Michael Sauschuck did not identify the districts affected. WMTW TV reported that calls were also received about the Fort Fairfield, Rockland, Gardiner, Wiscasset, Ellsworth, Brunswick, Winslow, and Houlton school districts.

Contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com or via Twitter @DanAlexanderNH