Lockdown cleared at Catasauqua schools after threat of violence

Two Catasauqua schools were placed on lockdown Thursday morning after receiving a phone call threatening violence, district officials said.

The lockdown at Catasauqua Middle School and Sheckler Elementary School was lifted shortly before 12:30 p.m., the district superintendent said.

“Police were swift and immediate in their response. The threat has been investigated by police, and Catasauqua Middle School and Sheckler Elementary School have been deemed to be safe and have returned to normal operations,” read the statement from Superintendent Christina Lutz-Doemling. “An increased police presence will remain on our campuses for the remainder of the school day, and counselors will be available for support.”

The threat of violence comes one day after two children were killed and 17 people injured during a mass shooting at a Minneapolis Catholic School. At least 11 college campuses, including Villanova, have received hoax calls and false alarms in recent days.

“We understand the anxiety a situation like this can cause for our families, students, staff, and community,” the Catasauqua Area School District statement reads. “Please know that our top priority is the safety and well-being of our students and staff. We take any and all reports of potential threats seriously, and we are making every effort to maintain an environment where students and staff feel safe.”

https://www.mcall.com/2025/08/28/lockdown-cleared-at-catasauqua-middle-sheckler-elementary-after-threat-of-violence/