As this situation becomes more public, I want to first thank the Ignacio School Board, school staff and faculty, and the people of the community of Ignacio for the tremendous support they have shown to myself and my family during this unfortunate situation. As word has spread about this threat, I have been encouraged by the many messages of support we have received.

I am extremely sorry this has occurred and for any inconvenience and uneasiness this has caused among my fellow co-workers.

Ignacio Schools are cooperating fully with all police agencies that are investigating these threats. Additional security measures have been put in place. We hope these efforts will result in a successful prosecution of whoever is responsible. This is not only a threat against myself and my family, but also threatens the security of the school community. It is hoped that anyone who hears anything suspect or has information about this threat, will contact Chief Kirk Phillips and or Sgt. Wes Crume at the Ignacio Police Department at (970) 563-4206.

In any community and school district experiencing such rapid change as we have seen in Ignacio in recent years, there will always be dissenters and disagreements. With the school bond issue passing by only one vote, it is even more likely that not everyone will be happy with the construction, the changes, the new programs and staff turnover. It is something we hope can always be resolved through positive communication, collaboration and cooperation. Threats of this type solve nothing and change nothing. I will not be intimidated into stopping the progress we are making in improving Ignacio Schools and preparing our students for successful future careers.

Thanks again to all who have expressed concern, support and assistance. This threat is not what Ignacio is about or who we are. We are a very welcoming, diverse community that is proud of our diversity and acceptance of our differences. This cannot be tolerated in our community and schools and it is hoped this will be resolved as soon as possible. Any help from the community in solving this crime is greatly appreciated.

Rocco Fuschetto, Ed. D.

Ignacio superintendent of schools