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The Alpena-Montmorency-Alcona Educational Service District (AMA ESD) is sharing information on behalf of our local school districts regarding a fraudulent “swatting” call received over the weekend. Alpena Public Schools and Alcona Community Schools received the same automated voicemail. Following a review of the matter, law enforcement has expressed high confidence that these calls are a hoax and part of a malicious trend impacting school districts across the country. According to authorities, several districts in the state of Michigan were targeted this weekend.

The automated message made a general reference to a “high school,” but did not name a specific district, building, or community. Because the calls occurred over the weekend when buildings were empty, there was no disruption to students. All students and staff across the AMA ESD region are safe, and the school day is proceeding as scheduled.

Understanding “Swatting” Hoaxes

“Swatting” is a dangerous and illegal trend where individuals make false reports of serious emergencies–such as a bomb threat or active shooter–to trigger an unnecessary law enforcement response. These fraudulent reports are intentionally designed to instill fear, create panic, and disrupt the learning environment.

While we treat every report with the utmost caution, the vague nature of these calls aligns with similar hoaxes reported throughout Michigan in recent months. Our regional staff and local law enforcement partners followed all established safety protocols to ensure our buildings remained secure.

Reporting Suspicious Activity: OK2SAY

The safety of our community is a shared responsibility. We encourage students, parents, and community members to remain vigilant. If you ever see or hear anything concerning–whether in person or online–please report it immediately.

Law enforcement reminds our community to use OK2SAY, Michigan’s confidential student safety program, to report anything suspicious:

– Call: 8-555-OK2SAY (855-565-2729)

– Text: 652729 (OK2SAY)

– Email: OK2SAY@mi.gov

– Website: michigan.gov/ok2say

“The safety of our students and staff is our absolute top priority,” said AMA ESD Superintendent Justin Gluesing. “We are working closely with our local law enforcement partners, who are confident that this was a coordinated, fraudulent attempt to disrupt our schools. We ask our families to use this as an opportunity to discuss the importance of tools like OK2SAY in keeping our community safe.”

The AMA ESD will continue to coordinate with local districts and law enforcement as they investigate the origin of these calls. We appreciate the community’s support in maintaining a calm and focused environment for our students.

Media Contacts: Lee Fitzpatrick, Communications Director, Alpena Public Schools

fitzpatrickl@alpenaschools.com | 989-464-6447

Daniel O’Connor, Superintendent, Alcona Community Schools

oconnord@alconaschools.net

Scott Stephenson, Alcona County Sheriff, 989-724-6271