VALDOSTA — Tuesday, J.L. Newbern Middle School was the center of a concerning situation as authorities responded to a bomb threat that was detected online.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigations detected the threat and promptly alerted the Valdosta Police Department. While specific details regarding the nature of the threat were not disclosed, law enforcement responded swiftly to the situation. Emergency responders swept the building and found no active threats, the Valdosta School District said in a statement on its website.

The school was cleared to hold classes about 7:15 a.m. Tuesday, but police were expected to be on and near campus throughout the day for extra security.

“We would like to take this opportunity to remind parents to speak with their children about the dangers of online threats,” the school district’s statement said. “These threats carry serious consequences for the offender, even when they are not intended as real.”

Addressing the incident on Wednesday, school officials emphasized the importance of transparency with families and stakeholders.

“Transparency with our families is important to us. Consequently, upon learning of any threat, particularly one posted online, we recognize the necessity of promptly informing families of the impacted school,” stated Jennifer Steedly, director of public relations for the Valdosta City Schools.

Authorities recognized the need to promptly inform the community of any potential threats, particularly those posted online, and affirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety and productivity of educational environments.

For further information on the incident and the response process, concerned parties are encouraged to contact the Valdosta Police Department or the Georgia Bureau of Investigations directly. As the investigation unfolds, officials remain vigilant in their efforts to safeguard the well-being of the schools in our community, Steedly said.