In response to a concerning increase in terroristic threat calls since the start of the school year, Schertz police have teamed up with Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD (SCUC ISD) and the Cibolo Police Department to launch the "Threat Regret" campaign. This initiative, which includes an educational video message, is designed to raise awareness among students and parents about the serious consequences of making or posting threatening messages, particularly on social media.
The surge in threats, which has been fueled largely by social media posts or statements made in moments of frustration or anger, is not just a local issue but part of a growing trend seen across the state and nation. "While all threats so far have been deemed non-credible, they still strain school and law enforcement resources and instill fear in the community," said Paige A. Meloni, SCUC Superintendent of Schools. "We cannot afford to dismiss these incidents as mere jokes. The consequences of such threats can be severe and long-lasting."
The video, aimed at students in grades 5-12, will be shown in assembly settings with campus administrators, school counselors, and School Resource Officers (SROs. It also features messages from local police chiefs and students from Samuel Clemens High School and Byron P. Steele High School.
Since the start of the 2024-2025 school year, there have been 17 student arrests district-wide for making terroristic threats, an increase from the previous two years. On November 12, 2024, the Schertz Police Department detained its 12th student for making a threat.
Schertz Police Chief Jim Lowery emphasized the importance of parental involvement in preventing these incidents. "It is imperative that our youth fully understand the personal and community harm from making such threats. This is a serious crime with serious negative consequences that can impact not just the short term, but a lifetime," Lowery stated. "We need parents to be engaged and have the courage to talk to their children about this issue."
The campaign also includes print materials and resources posted in school hallways to further educate students. Parents are encouraged to watch the video at home and continue the conversation with their children about the importance of safety and responsibility in their online and offline actions.
