Every Student Will Be Searched At Joliet West, Joliet Central

JOLIET ? At 9 p.m. on Sunday, Joliet Township High School spokeswoman Kristine Schlismann issued a press advisory indicating that "We are aware of a social media threat that is circulating that states all schools in Joliet will have '2 students with a weapon inside each school.' The Joliet Police Department is investigating. Out of an abundance of caution, we will search all students as they enter school tomorrow. The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority."

Late Sunday night, the Joliet Police Department posted on Facebook that it "is aware of an unsubstantiated threat circulating on social media regarding the safety of schools in the Joliet area. While no credible evidence has been found to support this threat, we take the safety of students and staff at all local schools very seriously. As such, we are currently investigating the origins of this social media message and we have been communicating closely with school officials throughout the various Joliet area school districts.

"We will be providing an increased presence to school locations within the Joliet area overnight and during arrival times to those schools that are proceeding with an in-person school day. Officers will work to monitor and maintain a safe environment for all.

Meanwhile, District 86 spokeswoman Sandra Zalewski notified Joliet Patch on Sunday night that Joliet's grade schools and junior highs will not be having classes on Monday at their respective buildings.

Joliet District 86 Schools will be closed on Monday, Zalewski informed Joliet Patch.

"The Joliet Police Department is currently investigating a social media threat that is circulating about students bringing weapons to several schools in Joliet this week," Zalewski's press release advised. "Out of an abundance of caution, all Joliet District 86 schools will be closed tomorrow, Monday, September 16, 2024 and an e-learning day will be used. The safety and security of our students and staff is our top priority."

In District 86, "All students should log onto their devices at their regular school starting time. Attendance will be taken. Please visit our District website at for more details. We appreciate your ongoing support."