Investigators found a group chat where students discussed ways to disrupt school and force it to close Friday, including writing a threat in a school bathroom, according to the district. School administrators and police interviewed students and followed district procedures, Superintendent said in the update.

The three students received disciplinary consequences under district policy and applicable law. The district did not disclose specifics, citing student privacy protections. The update did not announce criminal charges.

The incident was one of three threats investigated in West Warwick schools in recent weeks. Two others were reported at the middle school and were deemed not credible; officials previously said they had no reason to believe the incidents were connected.

The superintendent thanked the student who first reported the high school message, saying that alerting an adult allowed officials to respond. The superintendent also urged families to talk with children about the seriousness of threatening statements, including messages shared in group chats and texts.

“Even when the intent is to disrupt school, threatening words cause real fear and carry serious consequences,” the superintendent wrote.

Police are expected at a seniors’ barbecue at the high school this weekend, with a more visible police presence planned for Monday. School counselors remain available, and families can contact their child’s school to arrange support.

The superintendent acknowledged that the police findings may not immediately ease the fear and frustration felt by students, families and staff.