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BREAKING NEWS: Community Raises Alarms Over Alleged “Kill Book” at Sand Rock School; District Confirms Threatening Statements but Declines to Address Key Questions
- The Weekly Ledger
- Nov 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 22
T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Breaking News
SAND ROCK, Ala. — The Weekly Ledger News has received multiple reports from concerned parents and community members regarding an alleged “kill book” — as it has been referred to — created by a Sand Rock School student, an incident reportedly brought to light during the first week of November and now generating significant concern throughout the community.
According to several independent sources, a student at Sand Rock School allegedly compiled a written list containing the names of numerous students, along with detailed personal information about them. TWLN has been informed that the student was temporarily removed from campus but returned to school on Thursday, November 20, where they are reportedly serving in-school suspension.
Lack of Communication Heightens Concern
In an effort to verify the incident and gather official context, The Weekly Ledger News contacted Sand Rock Principal Ben East prior to publication. As of press time, Mr. East has not responded to any inquiries.
TWLN also reached out to Cherokee County Schools Superintendent Mike Welsh, submitting a series of direct questions regarding the district’s handling of the alleged threat, safety protocols implemented, and whether mandatory procedures outlined in the district’s own Code of Conduct were followed.
A statement from Welsh was received at 12:42 PM on Friday, November 21, reading:
“We were recently made aware of a situation at Sand Rock School regarding threatening statements found in a notebook toward a small number of students. We have taken multiple steps to ensure the safety of all our students. Appropriate authorities and agencies have been involved in determining the best course of action. There is no immediate threat to any student or staff member at Sand Rock School. Student safety will continue to be our top priority.”
TWLN Seeks Clarification on Code of Conduct Requirements
Under the Cherokee County Schools Code of Conduct, written threats—including death threats—qualify as a Class IV Violation (4.01 – Bomb/Death Threat).
This classification requires the following mandatory actions:
Immediate out-of-school suspension
Notification of law enforcement
Issuance of a warrant
Tribunal or board disciplinary hearing
Consideration of alternative placement or expulsion
TWLN followed up with Superintendent Welsh to request clarification on whether the district classified the incident as a Class IV violation and whether these mandatory procedures were initiated.
Welsh declined to answer, stating:
“We cannot discuss details of student discipline with the public. Please know that we always strive to follow board policy in all situations.”
Sheriff’s Office Confirms Awareness, but Limited by Juvenile Restrictions
The Weekly Ledger News also contacted Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver, who confirmed that the school’s assigned School Resource Officer (SRO) had been made aware of the incident.
However, Shaver emphasized that the Sheriff’s Office cannot comment on matters involving juveniles, nor on disciplinary actions handled internally by the school or Board of Education.
State Department of Education Contacted for Oversight Review
Given the seriousness of the allegations—and questions surrounding whether required disciplinary procedures were followed—TWLN submitted a detailed request for comment to Alabama State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey.
TWLN asked the Department of Education to clarify:
Whether the state had been notified
Whether a written “kill list”— as it has been referred to — is categorized as a death threat under Alabama school safety guidance
Whether oversight procedures are triggered when a district fails to follow mandatory Class IV sanctions
Whether returning a student to school without a tribunal or board hearing is permissible under state policy
As of publication time, Dr. Mackey has not responded.
Families Seek Transparency and Reassurance
Parents who contacted The Weekly Ledger News expressed deep concern over both the nature of the alleged threat and what they describe as an apparent lack of transparency from school leadership.
Several families told TWLN they fear the incident may be minimized or handled quietly rather than in accordance with the clear requirements outlined in district policy.
TWLN continues to gather information, review policy obligations, and request official comment from all relevant authorities. Our newsroom remains committed to reporting verified, accurate information to ensure the community stays informed and reassured.
Please continue to follow The Weekly Ledger News for updates as more details become available.
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