MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – Graduation ceremonies at Clintondale High School will proceed as scheduled on Friday, with enhanced security measures in place, school officials announced, days after the district canceled prom due to a potential safety threat involving a possible firearm.
In a statement released Thursday (June 4), Interim Superintendent Kevin Knoblock said the investigation that prompted the prom cancellation remains active and is being conducted by the district’s school resource officer and the Clinton Township Police Department.
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“At this time, the tip that prompted the cancellation remains under active investigation,” Knoblock said. “Because the investigation is ongoing, I am limited in the information I am able to share.”
Knoblock said an update regarding prom-related questions would be provided when possible.
Prom canceled after tip came in hour before event
The district canceled prom on June 2 after receiving an OK2SAY tip through Michigan State Police approximately an hour before the event was scheduled to begin.
According to district officials, the tip indicated a student might be bringing a firearm to prom and was categorized as a “Planned School Attack.”
After reviewing the information with law enforcement and school administrators, district leaders decided to cancel the event.
“We carefully considered every option, fully aware of the disappointment this decision would cause for students and families,” Knoblock said earlier this week. “However, we also recognized the serious potential risk involved and our responsibility to protect everyone attending the event.”
Disappointment for students, families
The cancellation left many students and families disappointed after months of planning and expenses associated with the annual event.
“I understand how disappointing this situation is for our students and families,” Knoblock said Thursday. “Prom is an important milestone, and I share in that disappointment. However, student safety must always remain our highest priority.”
Graduation moves forward; prom rescheduling uncertain
While questions remain about whether prom will be rescheduled, district officials said commencement exercises for the Class of 2026 will move forward on Friday.
The graduation ceremony is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m., with gates opening at 2:45 p.m.
School officials said additional security measures have been implemented, including increased police presence and security screening of all guests and belongings.
Families are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for screening.
The event will not be open to the public.
Admission is limited to ticketed guests, with tickets previously distributed to graduates who requested them.
Knoblock thanked students, families, and community members for their patience and cooperation during the ongoing investigation.
“I appreciate the patience, understanding, and support of our community as we work to ensure the safety of our students and staff,” Knoblock said. “I look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 at the commencement ceremony.”
Authorities have not released additional information about the threat or identified any suspects.
The investigation remains ongoing.