On September 10th, 2025, the Atherton Police Department received information from a tip line regarding a potential threat to Menlo-Atherton High School.
The information involved a former Menlo-Atherton High School student, currently enrolled at another high school in the area, who had reportedly posted concerning content online related to Menlo-Atherton High School.
Out of an abundance of caution, Menlo-Atherton High School was placed on a “secure campus” order while Atherton Police officers were immediately deployed to multiple locations on campus to ensure the safety of students and staff. Due to its close proximity to Menlo-Atherton, Laurel School was also placed on a “secure campus” order as an additional precaution.
Atherton Police officers, working closely with Menlo-Atherton High School staff and with assistance from surrounding law enforcement agencies, initiated an investigation and were able to locate and detain the former student.
The investigation remains active, and no further threat to the school community is believed to exist at this time.
The Atherton Police Department is grateful for the swift actions of our officers, school staff, and partner agencies in ensuring the safety of the Menlo-Atherton and Laurel school communities. We also want to remind the public that reporting suspicious activity plays a vital role in preventing potential threats. If you see something, say something—your awareness and willingness to act make our community safer.
