JUNIOR — The Barbour County Sheriff’s Department has issued information regarding a “possible student threat” report at Junior Elementary School Thursday morning.

The Sheriff’s Department’s press release states, “On February 19, 2026, at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Barbour County Sheriff’s Department Prevention Resource Officer responded to Junior Elementary alongside the Barbour County Schools Safety Director after a report of a possible student threat.”

Police say school staff got the situation under control before officers arrived at the school.

“School administrators acted quickly and had the students involved secured prior to our arrival,” the release states. “After a thorough investigation, it was determined that there was not a safety risk.

“The Prevention Resource Officer worked closely with the school and other agencies and offices. The student involved has been removed from school, and the investigation will continue as a precaution.”

Sheriff Brett Carpenter and his department issued the following message for the community:

“We want to reassure parents and our community that there is no threat to Junior Elementary School. The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority. We appreciate the swift actions of school officials and the cooperation of everyone involved.

“We encourage parents to continue having open conversations with their children about the importance of speaking up if they see or hear something concerning. Working together, we help keep our schools safe.”