Searsport ● Stockton Springs
Office of the Superintendent
6 Mortland Road
Searsport, ME 04974
November 18, 2022
Dear RSU #20 Community & Families,
I am writing to inform you about a hoax that is currently circulating in Maine regarding school shootings in Cumberland County. The reports that are coming into multiple school districts, which are largely taking the form of robocalls, have been determined to be false.
It was reported that there was a mass casualty incident in at least two high schools in Southern Maine. Local authorities were in immediate contact with Superintendents around the state to update us on these events. In addition, The Maine Department of Education and The Maine Information Analysis Center quickly announced that they believed (and have now confirmed) that these reports were a hoax.
I know these reports can understandably cause stress and fear. RSU #20 is committed to the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community. We are working collaboratively with the Waldo County Sheriff's Office and the Searsport Police Department. We will respond accordingly in the event any reports are made to RSU #20 schools. At this time, RSU #20 schools are operating as usual. If anyone needs assistance or support this afternoon, please reach out to your child’s school principal.
Sincerely,
Chris Downing
Superintendent of Schools