Students return to class after bomb threat at WHS

Washougal High School students and staff have returned to class, following the report of a “non-specific threat of a bomb” inside the building this morning.

According to Washougal Police Department Commander Allen Cook, a handwritten note was found Tuesday in one of the restroom stalls at approximately 10 a.m.

“There was no other information or notifications about a threat, but to err on the side of caution, the building was evacuated as per district protocol.”

Students were placed in holding areas outside the school. Staff members helped search the building at 1201 39th St. Nothing was found. Students returned to class at approximately 11:06 a.m.

According to a statement from the Washougal School District, the Washougal Police Department and the Clark County Bomb Squad described the incident as a “non-critical threat.”

Parents of all students in the district were notified of the incident via automated telephone message, and updated information will be posted on the district website, www.washougal.k12.wa.us and Facebook page.

“We appreciate the support of the police department and staff members who assisted with a search of the classrooms,” said Aaron Hansen, WHS principal. “Students and parents have also been very cooperative.”

District Superintendent Dawn Tarzian said every threat is taken seriously.

“I’m impressed that our crisis protocol was followed and that our students and staff followed directions safely,” she said.

“I’m very disappointed that this occurred in the first place, and the school will investigate the source of the threat because of the fear and anxiety it causes students, parents and staff, as well as the disruption to the learning environment,” Tarzian continued. “I apologize for the fear that this created for students, staff and parents, and appreciate your understanding as we treat situations like this with the utmost seriousness.”