Highland Elementary Investigates Potential Threat List
Columbus, OH – Highland Elementary School was briefly placed on lockdown Tuesday as Columbus Police investigated a concerning list reportedly created by a 10-year-old student. The list allegedly contained the names of students and staff the child intended to harm.
police where called to the school just before noon after administrators were alerted to the list by concerned students. Parents like brianna New expressed worry and a desire to understand the situation. “I would realy like to know what led this child to do this, and what was going through their mind,” New stated.
Experts suggest underlying issues may be at play.Dr. David Lowenstein, a psychologist practicing in German Village, explained that such behavior ofen stems from feelings of isolation or mistreatment. “Children in these situations often feel helpless and overwhelmed,” Dr. Lowenstein said. “They may feel like nothing they do is right, and that their anger and frustration aren’t being acknowledged, even if they aren’t directly communicating their struggles.”
School officials responded to the incident with a letter to parents, reaffirming their commitment to student safety and urging open interaction about managing emotions.The letter emphasized the importance of discussing the impact of words, notably when children are upset.
Dr. Lowenstein echoed this sentiment, advising parents to proactively engage with their children. “Make dedicated time to talk about what’s happening in their lives. Don’t wait for them to initiate the conversation – create a safe space where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.”
many parents, including New, are seeking information about whether their children were specifically named on the list. ”I’m anxious to know if my child was targeted,but the school isn’t releasing that information,” she said. ABC Six has contacted Columbus City Schools for clarification on whether individuals listed will be notified directly and is awaiting a response.
The student who allegedly created the list has been taken to Nationwide Children’s Hospital for a mental health evaluation. The school district is preparing to take disciplinary action, and Columbus Police are currently investigating to determine if criminal charges are warranted.
New praised the students who came forward with the information, saying, “They were understandably frightened, but I’m grateful they felt safe enough to report it.”