Cedar Rapids Police Release Statement on TikTok ‘December 17 Challenge’

There is a 'challenge' going around on TikTok pertaining to tomorrow -- Friday, December 17. The message involves the potential threat of violence within schools, and it's gained attention all across the country.

Here is the most 'liked' video on TikTok regarding the subject:

Another one of the messages is as follows:

 Praying for people who go to school on December 17.

 

Supposedly, the 'challenge' originated in Arizona, and it was intended to encourage students to skip school.

Cedar Rapids Police (CRPD) say they've been informed, and are aware of the trend going around social media. At this time, they believe "there is no credible threat to Cedar Rapids schools."

Though the statement doesn't refer exactly to what the challenge entails, this is what was posted:

Some cities and school districts are adding extra measures for safety, including Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS). Here is part of their statement from their site,

The Cincinnati Police Department is aware of the social media challenge and we are working with them directly. As a result, you may see an increased security presence at schools.

Though neither Cedar Rapids Schools nor CRPD have addressed what parents should do at the moment, CPS adds this:

Please take some time to talk to your children about the pressures of social media and the potential consequences of engaging in this type of behavior. This is also a good time to reiterate that everyone has a responsibility to share information related to the safety of our school community with the administration or a trusted adult immediately.

They also advise children and parents to contact their school principals if anything surfaces that is of concern on social media.

Here's a more on the story from a Utah news station: