The Tamaqua Area School District said all Tamaqua Junior and senior high school students in high school and middle school have been dismissed.

Buses and vans are off on their routes for elementary and West Penn pick up was set immediately after high school and middle school drop offs.

The district was put on lockdown this afternoon for a threat.

Around 1:30 p.m., the district notified parents of the situation.

“This afternoon we received a disturbing call threatening the safety of our students at our secondary campus. We immediately followed protocols contacting law enforcement and securing our building to protect our students and staff. Areas in and around our facilities were searched and monitored. We are in restricted movement currently and will remain until all clear. We have and will continue to work with law enforcement to investigate the situation and will provide updates as soon as possible.”

Police are at the Tamaqua Area High and Middle schools, and a state police helicopter is circling the area.