Gaylord School Community Reponds to Threatening Song

GAYLORD, MI — A disturbing recorded song containing threatening language directed toward members of the Gaylord school community has triggered a law-enforcement investigation and concern among local families.

According to Gaylord Community Schools, Superintendent Mandy Bolen notified families after the district received reports about the recording.

Reports indicate the song allegedly named individual Gaylord High School students and contained threatening language and references to school shootings.

The district says law enforcement determined that there was not a credible threat and that classes would continue as scheduled.

However, there is an important distinction: Gaylord Police said that officers are still investigating the incident, including meeting with students and collecting impact statements. Police said the completed investigation is expected to be forwarded to the prosecutor, who will determine whether any criminal charges are appropriate.

One family whose son was reportedly named in the recording said that the incident has affected how safe he feels returning to school.

Gaylord Community Schools says counselors and support staff are available for students who need someone to talk with, and the district will continue following its student-conduct policies.

School officials are also asking students and parents not to repost or continue circulating the recording on social media.

That last part is important. If you receive something threatening involving a school, send it directly to school officials or law enforcement instead of helping it spread online.

This situation raises a bigger question for parents and the community:

Even when investigators determine there isn’t a credible immediate threat, how should schools handle threatening songs, videos or social-media posts that specifically name students?

Should there be stronger consequences when content crosses the line from a joke or song into language that makes other students fear for their safety?

Keep the discussion respectful — there are students and families involved in this situation.