Increased security follows bomb threat at middle school

North Cedar Middle School student backpacks are subject to search because of a bomb threat directed at the school.

Superintendent John Dayton confirmed the rumor of a bomb threat Wednesday.

“A threatening note was found in a locker room after school on Monday,” Dayton said. “Safety procedures have been taken.”

This includes backpack searches, and a search of the school building and grounds. All exits and entrances are under surveillance.

Dayton didn't give specifics of the note's contents, but said all information has been turned over to the Cedar County Sheriff Department where it is under investigation.

Law enforcement officers also maintain a presence the school.

“People are very supportive of the protocols we've taken,” Dayton said.

He said there have been no incidents in the school or among students to provoke the threat.

“It came as a surprise,” Dayton said.

Dayton, who is in his first year as superintendent with the district, knows of no previous threats made against the school.