A Desert Sunrise High School student was the source of a threat that led school district administrators to contact parents Thursday, giving them the option of removing schoolchildren from classes.

“Maricopa Unified School District takes all threats seriously,” said MUSD spokesperson Mishell Terry. “Even if a threat was made in a joking manner, it warrants a full and thorough investigation.”

MUSD will follow established discipline matrix to determine the appropriate actions, which could include expulsion, Terry said, adding that students who violate state law can also face prosecution.

The student could be charged with “interference with or disruption of an educational institution” by threatening that institution.

“It is an ongoing investigation and the District is fully cooperating with The Maricopa Police Department,” Terry said, declining to detail the threat made because of the pending police investigation and concern for spreading “unfounded concerns.”

“Both the Maricopa Police Department and the Maricopa Unified School District aim to support a thorough and effective investigation,” Terry said.

MUSD recognizes that deterring future situations requires a multi-layered approach involving collaboration between parents, law enforcement, and the school community, she said.

“MUSD staff are committed to building strong relationships with students, ensuring they feel comfortable reporting any concerning behavior or information to a trusted adult, whether they see it online or hear it in conversation,” she said. “Our message is clear: If you see something, say something. For those who prefer to remain anonymous, they can use our tipline at musd20.org/tipline.”

Terry said students are routinely reminded about the seriousness of making or sharing threatening statements, even if done in a joking manner.

“We stress that such behavior can lead to serious consequences, including expulsion, and even criminal prosecution,” she said, urging parents to have “open and honest discussions with their children about the severe consequences of making threats.”

The threat prompted MUSD Supt. Tracey Lopeman to send and email to parents, telling them they had the option to remove schoolkids from schools, if they wanted.

Classes remained in session Thursday after the threat was determined not to be credible and the investigation involving MPD and federal investigators took place.