The Threat and Immediate Response
Peel Regional Police were alerted on March 2 to social media posts threatening that an individual intended to “shoot up” six secondary schools on March 10. The schools named in the threats included.
- St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School
- Holy Name of Mary Secondary School
- Louise Arbour Secondary School
- Notre Dame Secondary School
- Chinguacousy Secondary School
- Ascension of Our Lord Secondary School
In response, Peel Regional Police coordinated with the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board and the Peel District School Board to implement enhanced safety measures. These included a visible police presence at the affected schools, controlled access to buildings, and increased security protocols to reassure the community and deter any potential threat.
Community Impact and School Board Actions
The threats caused significant concern among students, parents, and staff. Some parents chose to keep their children at home on the day the threats were supposed to be carried out. The Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board communicated regularly with families, emphasizing that they were taking the threats seriously and working closely with law enforcement. They also adjusted school operations, including rescheduling or canceling planned events, to prioritize safety.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Actions
Peel Regional Police continued to investigate the origin of the threats, focusing on identifying those responsible. In a related incident from March 2023, a 16-year-old girl and a 14-year-old boy were charged with uttering threats after similar online posts targeted the same schools. These cases highlight the serious legal consequences of making such threats, even if they are not carried out.
School Profile: St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School
St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School, located at 25 Corporation Drive in Brampton, is a Catholic institution under the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board. Established in 1974 and relocated to its current site in 1992, the school offers a range of programs, including the Regional Arts Program and Specialist High Skills Major programs in areas like Construction, Information and Communication Technology, and Health Care. The school is known for its commitment to academic excellence and student development.
Conclusion
The incident at St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School underscores the importance of vigilance and prompt action in the face of potential threats to school safety. The coordinated efforts of law enforcement, school boards, and the community were instrumental in addressing the situation and ensuring the well-being of students and staff. As investigations continue, the focus remains on maintaining a secure and supportive educational environment.