MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – Clintondale Community Schools will refund all purchased prom tickets after determining it cannot reschedule the event while an investigation into a potential safety threat remains active.
The district announced on Monday (June 8) that students and families who purchased tickets will receive information this week regarding the refund process.
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In a statement, Interim Superintendent Kevin Knoblock said school officials explored options for holding prom at a later date but ultimately decided against rescheduling because there is no timeline for when the investigation will conclude.
“At this time, the tip that led to the cancellation remains under active investigation,” Knoblock said. “Until the investigation determines otherwise, the information is considered credible and is being treated with the utmost seriousness.”
Clintondale High School’s prom was canceled June 2, about an hour before it was scheduled to begin, after the district received an OK2SAY tip through the Michigan State Police.
According to school officials, the report suggested a student might bring a firearm to the dance and was categorized as a “Planned School Attack.”
District administrators decided to cancel the event after consulting with law enforcement.
Because the investigation remains ongoing, school officials said they could not justify asking students and families to wait indefinitely for a decision on a replacement event.
Refunds will be issued by check, payable to the student who purchased the ticket.
The district said seniors and other ticket holders will receive direct communication outlining the refund process.
School leaders acknowledged students’ and families’ disappointment and thanked community members who explored alternatives to holding a prom event outside the district.
The district emphasized that any plans organized through the Community Activist Project or other community groups, including discussions about independently hosting or rescheduling prom, are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or coordinated through Clintondale Community Schools.
“Our priority remains the safety and well-being of our students,” the district said in its statement. “We remain committed to that and are grateful for the continued care and dedication shown by our community.”
The investigation is being conducted by the district’s school resource officer and the Clinton Township Police Department.
Officials have not released additional details about the threat or identified any suspects.
Despite the ongoing investigation, Clintondale High School’s graduation ceremony proceeded as scheduled on Friday with enhanced security measures in place, including increased police presence and security screenings for all guests and belongings.
School officials said the additional precautions were implemented to help ensure the safety of students, staff, and attendees.
The investigation remains ongoing.