A vague note found in a bathroom at the AHST High School in Avoca Tuesday morning, prompted the evacuation of students in all of the districts building for a little over an hour an a half. Superintendent Mark Hopkins issued a statement Tuesday on the District’s website saying: 

The A­‐H­‐S­‐T Community School buildings were evacuated late (Tuesday) morning (May 1st) due to a bomb threat. At that time, law enforcement was called to ensure that the building was safe. It was determined that the buildings were completely safe and that the incident was a hoax. At no time was any student in harm’s way, and any future incidents of this nature will be handled with consultation and advice from law enforcement.” Hopkins went on to say “Unfortunately, incidents of this nature do occur,” but he commended the A‐H-­S-­T staff and students “for handling the situation extremely well.” Hopkins said classes will resume Wednesday, as usual.  The Superindendent said that “The A-­H-­S-­T Community School thanks all the parents and community members for their cooperation and understanding.”

According to authorities, a note indicating bombs were placed in a lunch room was found in a bathroom at around 11:4o-a.m., but the note didn’t specify which lunchroom. As a precaution, authorities evacuated both the high school and elementary school. A bomb squad with the the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office searched the buildings, but nothing was found. Students were allowed to return to their classrooms at around 1:30 p.m. The incident remains under investigation, and authorities say while there are suspects, they declined to release any further information at this time. It’s the first reported bomb threat in the AHST District, in at least nine-years.