Additional school closures were reported in the area following an incident at Mount Horeb Middle School

MADISON, Wis. – There has been a spike in school closures in southern Wisconsin following the killing of an armed student outside Mount Horeb Middle School last Wednesday.

The Platteville School District, New Glarus School District and the School District of Janesville are just a few of those that have imposed lockdowns within the week, marking a significant increase in threats of violence at schools.

“I think what you’re seeing is that teachers in schools and the public in general are on high alert and more willing to report any suspicious activity or potential threats,” said law enforcement expert Brian Landers.

Landers says that while school closures could mean increased risk, the reality is probably just a more safety-conscious community.

“When a place like Mount Horeb is the scene of an incident, I think it reminds many other schools, parents, teachers and the public in general that these tragic events can happen anywhere,” Landers said. “And this is particularly true for schools and rural, smaller communities.”

He says that when school violence is commonplace, it’s not surprising that local law enforcement is receiving more and more overcautious 9-1-1 calls.

The public, he adds, should not shy away from reporting suspicious behavior just because a threat might be illegitimate.

“If you see something, say something. Don’t ever think about chalking it up because my mind just races. I’ve always told everyone: trust your instincts.”

Report a tip to Speak Up Speak Out Wisconsin here.

Report suspicious activity to the Department of Homeland Security here.