Fifth graders plot to bomb Clifton High School

Fifth graders plot to bomb Clifton High School

A disturbing plot was foiled by authorities on Wednesday, December 2. Five fifth graders, ages 10-11, from Clifton School #11 were detained and questioned in connection to an attempted bombing of Clifton High School. The students were supposed to be attending a field trip event at the high school later that afternoon. Shortly before the trip, a call came in informing the police that written plans had been found in the possession of one of the kids. The plans are said to have been very descriptive about how the bombing would take place.
This discovery canceled the event at the high school as well as Merselis Avenue Elementary School. Later on, it was discovered that the children had built some sort of device with which to carry out the bombing. Though it was benign and contained no traces of explosive materials, the intent was there. The device consisted of an empty Altoids tin containing vegetable oil, cinnamon sticks, and salad dressing. None of the students had a lighting device in his possession.
In a few interviews, it was brought to light that the children may have been bullied, and were acting in response to such bullying. The children have been suspended and released to their parents. However, Thursday afternoon, the other parents in the district were notified of the incident by an automated phone call. Parents of other attending students were shocked and infuriated, because it was not until a whole day after the dangerous plot that were people notified. In an interview with the vice principal, it was brought to light that the staff didn’t want to blow this incident out of proportion.
As of right now, students have been required to undergo a psychological evaluation, to report to counseling, and also to partake in a police education program before they are allowed to return to school.