An alleged shooting threat at Palmerton Area High School last week was unfounded, according to state police at Lehighton.

Acting Palmerton Superintendent Dr. Al Lonoconus sent a message to parents last week informing them of the investigation, which began, according to state police, based on rumors.

“Principal (Paula) Husar has been conducting a thorough investigation with the assistance of the state police,” Lonoconus said. “The student in question has been out of school and will remain so until further notice. I want to assure you there is no real threat to any of our schools and our students are safe.”

The threat came to Palmerton’s knowledge through a Safe2Say report, Lonoconus said.

Safe2Say Something is a statewide program that went live Jan. 14 enabling students, teachers, school administrators and others to detect and report potential threats of violence and other problems before they happen.

Lonoconus said any and all threatening statements made by students or adults will be taken seriously.

“We will suspend and if need be expel any student who is found to have made any such threatening statements,” he added. “I will also seek to have the individual criminally charged if warranted.”

The situation, he said, could be used as a conversation starter between parents and students.

“Take this opportunity to speak with your children about why making such statements will be viewed in such a manner and also why school bullying should not be tolerated in our schools,” he said.