Security at high school tightened after bomb threat

Students and teachers at American Falls High School will deal with a closed campus Friday due to a bomb threat.

On Thursday, the threat was reported to the Power County Sheriff’s Office. The high school is the target of the threat, which is allegedly to be carried out Friday.

According to a news release, deputies and American Falls police responded to the high school immediately to ensure safety at the school. School officials and law enforcement have been debriefed the matter and created a secure operational plan, the sheriff’s office said. Law enforcement officers will be working throughout the night to maintain security in the school building and on school grounds.

Classes will be held as usual, but the school closed-campus protocol will be in effect all day Friday.

Law enforcement and school officials said they will exercise the caution with an inspection of books and backpacks along with central parking for Friday morning. Students should plan to eat at school or bring a lunch. Delays for students, teachers and others visiting the school are likely.

Although the bomb threat may be a hoax, authorities said they are addressing it aggressively. A $500 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.