Tortolita Middle School

4101 West Hardy Road

Tucson, Arizona 85742
(520) 579-4600 FAX (520) 579-4646

Tuesday, May 14, 2019

Dear Cougar Families:

Because we value the importance of communicating with our parents and keeping you informed of any incident
related to our safety and security efforts, I want to share the following information with you:

At the end of the school day today, a student made a statement to a few fellow students about “shooting up the
school.” This information was immediately brought to the attention of an adult who informed school
administration who in turn contacted the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.

After a comprehensive investigation, in collaboration with school administration, the Pima County Sheriff’s
Department determined that there is no threat against our school. Their investigation however did result in an
arrest of a student.

Due to the confidentiality of student disciplinary issues and the desire to not impede law enforcement’s own
investigation, we are limited in our ability to publicly discuss or disclose further information. However, I can
tell you that this student will not be returning to Tortolita Middle School this school year.

The safety and well-being of your children is always foremost in our minds, and please know that this is an
isolated incident and not representative of our exceptional student body.

I want to take this opportunity to encourage parents to continue to talk to your child(ren) about the seriousness
of making statements related to a threatening/dangerous nature at any time, whether in person or on any social
media site. Threats against a school, even when made in a joking manner, can result in serious consequences
aligned with our District discipline matrix and Arizona Criminal Law. I cannot stress enough how serious this is
and I am confident that together, we will continue to educate students about the importance of positive choices
and understanding that negative choices can have serious repercussions.

I want to thank our vigilant and steadfast students who came forward about this incident. I also want to take this
opportunity to thank the Pima County Sheriff's Department for their quick response and thorough investigation.
By working in partnership, students, staff, parents and law enforcement can continue to provide safe and secure
schools for everyone.

Please know that this incident will not affect our school day tomorrow, and we will follow our regular schedule.
Thank you for your continued support of our outstanding school!

Sincerely,

Rex Scott
Principal
Rex Scott, Principal David Romero, Associate Principal / Athletic Director
Jessica Villarreal, Associate Principal Heather Johnson, School Secretary