School district vigilant after threat to Ackerman

Today could have been a devastating one for the Philadelphia School District.  A letter received by the District over the weekend warned a bomb would explode at District headquarters on North Broad Street mid-day today.Late Saturday evening, the School District’s webmaster received a threatening email that targeted the life and safety of Superintendent Arlene Ackerman and staff at 440 North Broad Street.  School district spokeswoman Shana Kemp said a search of the building did not turn up evidence of an explosive device.  

There is increased security here doing bag checks and things of that nature.  There is increased security here for visitors especially.

Kemp said a broad range of threats were made in the letter,”The Superintendent’s name was mentioned in the letter but it was about the Superintendent and staff as well,” said Kemp.  “I think it’s something that we’re all a bit surprised by of course.”Kemp said security personnel will now travel with Superintendent Ackerman, who already has a driver.  She said the threat has been referred to the Department of Homeland Security.  Kemp said visitors to the district headquarters have to show identification to get in and now bags are being checked.The district is reminding employees to remain vigilant at work at all times.