Grand River joins list of local high schools hit by threatening graffiti

KITCHENER — Grand River Collegiate Institute has joined a growing list of high schools to see graffiti that threatens violence.

A message found inside the school on Thursday was reported to Waterloo Regional Police, who are investigating after finding that threats made to other schools are not credible.

This one reads: “Instead of all the other ones being jokes I am serious. I will be shooting the school tues April 3rd BE READY GRAND THIS ISN’T A JOKE.”

Principal Jim Woolley reported the graffiti to families, posting a message on the school’s website.

He said it seems that someone tried to erase the graffiti.

“Our students have the right to learn in a safe environment without fear,” Woolley told families.

“No matter the intention, we take any threat of violence seriously and the authors of these threats will be held accountable.”

Four other high schools have been hit with threatening graffiti, prompting the public school board to reassure families.

“Our priority is to ensure that our schools remain safe places where students experience a caring learning environment that addresses student and staff well-being,” the board said in a message on its website on Wednesday.

The schools where threatening graffiti was reported include Eastwood Collegiate Institute, Huron Heights Secondary School and Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute in Kitchener, and Glenview Park Secondary School in Cambridge.

Police have been visiting local high schools to alleviate fears. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-5709777, ext. 4421, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.