Dear Parents and Guardians,

On August 20, we became aware of a threat targeting students who attend Manning Aurora Composite School. Please refer to the official RCMP media release for specific details regarding the threat. Since August 20, we have worked closely with the RCMP and completed the Violent Threat Risk Assessment (VTRA) process to evaluate the threat level and the risk to the safety of our students and staff. 

Please know that as we work our way through situations of this nature, the safety and well-being of our students and staff is always an unwavering priority for the Peace River School Division. The RCMP investigation regarding this matter has progressed significantly and we are confident students can safely return to school on September 1.

What you should know about next week’s start-up:

• The RCMP will have a dedicated presence on site at MACS on September 1 and will remain engaged as needed.
• Social workers from the Peace River School Division will be on site on September 1 to provide support to students. Support from the PRSD Social Workers will continue as long as their services are required.
• School staff, as well as our Manning bus drivers, have been informed and are aware of the situation. 
• School administration and our Central Operations' Emergency Response team will continue to work in close communication with the RCMP.

Until today, we were unable to share information with families because the RCMP asked us to limit what we communicated publicly in order to protect the integrity of their investigation. This was an important action we needed to honour as good partners in the VTRA process. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the criminal or legal aspect of this situation, please contact the Manning RCMP Detachment directly, at 780-836-3769. If you have school-related questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your principal, Kim Matheson.

Sincerely,

Jeff Thompson, PhD
Superintendent of Schools