SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) – Local school districts have alerted families to a social media trend regarding school safety. Both districts said they believe this trend started in another state but has been modified with local references.
We reached out to Wayne County Schools who told WTOC the trend appears to be the “Cat in the Hat” trend.
In some versions of the trend, accounts using the name or likeness of the children’s character have circulated lists naming schools and individuals claiming he’s “coming for” them.
We reached out to the Federal Bureau of Investigations who told us incidents of this type are being reported in multiple states.
They advised parents and educators to save any of the content that they receive so it can be used later if needed in investigations.
The FBI also advised:
- Please do not repost or circulate the threatening content, because that could increase fear, amplify the threats, and encourage copycat activity.
- Do not unnecessarily repost or widely circulate threatening content, which may increase fear, amplify the original poster’s reach, and encourage additional copycat activity.
- Report information suggesting a specific threat to local law enforcement and school safety officials.
- Do not engage with, attempt to identify, or confront the account or people making the threat. Let law enforcement handle it.
Jeff Davis County Schools
Jeff Davis County Schools said it was made aware of the trend late Sunday evening and apologized for the late notification.
“Based on the initial information we have received, the trend appears to have originated in another state and has since been modified to reference our area,” the district said.
The district said it has been in contact with local law enforcement, which is aware of the situation. There will be an increased law enforcement presence at Jeff Davis schools Monday “out of an abundance of caution,” the district said.
“At this time, we have not received any reports indicating that this message is circulating within our county,” the district said. The district asked anyone who sees or hears anything concerning to report it immediately to school or district administration or local law enforcement.
“While we do not want to create unnecessary alarm, we take every message or concern regarding school safety seriously,” the district said. “The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority, and we appreciate the continued support and vigilance of our families and community.”
Wayne County Schools
Wayne County Schools said it was also made aware of the trend, which it said originated in another state before being modified to include the Wayne County area.
After seeing this announcement we reached out to Wayne County Schools who told us the trend appears to be the “Cat in the Hat” trend.
“We have been in contact with local law enforcement. They are aware of the situation,” the district said. Wayne County said there will be an increased law enforcement presence around its schools today “out of an abundance of caution.”
“At this time, we have not received any reports indicating that this message is circulating within Wayne County,” the district said. The district asked that anyone who sees or hears anything concerning report it immediately to district administration or local law enforcement.
“While we do not want to cause unnecessary alarm, we take every message or concern regarding school safety seriously,” the district said. “The safety and security of our students and staff remain our highest priority, and we will continue to work closely with our public safety partners to monitor the situation.”
The district said it appreciates the support and cooperation of families “as we work together to maintain a safe learning environment for all students and staff.”
Tattnall County Schools
The Tattnall County Board of Education said they are aware of a social media post circulating online and are working with law enforcement partners.
Toombs County Schools
The Toombs County School district said they are also aware of the social media trend being shared online and said the post contains threatening language and mentions several school districts in our area.
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