RAVENSWOOD — Rumors of a threat at Ravenswood High School led some parents to keep their children home Thursday, but police and Jackson County Schools officials say there was no credible threat.

The Ravenswood Police Department posted a notice Wednesday to address concerns at the school.

“We are aware of rumors that have been circulating the high school this week,” according to the post. “The school administration and the resources officer have been investigating these rumors and as of right now have no evidence, or reason to believe, these rumors are credible. As always, our primary duty is the safety of our children and we will continue to do everything possible to ensure our children are safe.”

In an email Thursday, Jackson County Schools Superintendent Blaine Hess said the rumors were checked out and a threat was not found.

“School officials and the school’s prevention resource officer fully investigated the matter and determined a threat was not present,” Hess said. “To address the rumors circulating on social media the Ravenswood Police Department released a statement (Wednesday) night and the school principal sent a phone message to parents to update them on the matter.”

Authorities did not make details of the rumored threat public. Some parents took to social media, saying the response was not strong enough and that they would not send their students to school Thursday.

Parents at the school said there was an increased police presence. Attendance numbers for Thursday were not immediately available.

“Student safety will continue to be the highest priority in Jackson County Schools,” Hess said. “We appreciate the support of our law enforcement agencies in our joint efforts to keep our students and staff safe.”

Michael Erb can be reached at merb@newsandsentinel.com.