Yesterday, Wellsville USD 289 Officials were notified by the Paola School District of a “catfishing” scheme that targeted Paola High School students. As the matter was investigated, unsubstantiated reports about a possible school shooting developed. Word spread on social media to some of the students at Wellsville. Out of an abundance of caution, extra Law Enforcement was present near the Paola Schools yesterday. The Wellsville Volleyball team travelled to Paola yesterday afternoon and usd 289 Officials told parents in a letter that, there was no reason to believe that any type of credible threat and that no Wellsville students were suspected to be involved in the matter.
Catfishing schemes are a form of cyberbullying where individuals use fake online identities to deceive and manipulate students and sometimes staff. Wellsville staff says, they are appreciative of the communication between the two schools and that keeping every child safe is the most important thing they do.
