JACKSON COUNTY, Ga. — East Jackson High School was evacuated Tuesday afternoon after a written bomb threat was discovered, prompting a large law enforcement response and the cancellation of all after-school activities.

Principal Matt Stratemeyer said students and staff were safely evacuated to the school’s stadium as a precaution while the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office investigated the threat. Dismissal was conducted from the stadium, with student drivers allowed to leave immediately, car riders picked up from a relocated line, and bus riders directed to their buses.

Sheriff Kevin B. McCook later praised the swift and orderly response from students, staff, and parents.

“We are thankful for today’s outcome, but the investigation is ongoing to determine the responsible party,” McCook said. “I must commend the students, parents and faculty/staff of East Jackson High for the quick and orderly evacuation. I know such events are incredibly stressful to all involved.”

McCook noted that while the sheriff’s office does not have a full-time public information officer to provide real-time updates, officials worked to share accurate information as quickly as possible.

The sheriff also credited numerous agencies for providing immediate assistance, including Jackson County E911, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Barrow County Sheriff’s Office, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, UGA Police Department, Department of Public Safety, Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), West Jackson Fire, Jackson County EMA, Jackson County EMS, and Nicholson Fire.

“Parents, please discuss the serious nature of this type of activity,” McCook added. “We do not take it lightly. We will always bring all the necessary resources to bear to protect our children.”

The investigation into the threat remains active.