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SARATOGA SPRINGS — Alpine School District officials are trying to reassure parents after a threatening message was found at a school in Saratoga Springs.
Vandals broke into Sage Hills Elementary School at 3033 Swainson Ave. three times in the past three weeks, according to district spokesman John Patten. The first break-in on Jan. 5 resulted in no major theft or damage.
Then last Sunday night, someone broke into a portable classroom. Again, no major theft or damage was reported. However a message scratched into the door said "7 days down."
Monday night, another message was left on another classroom door. It said "6 days down."
Tuesday morning the principal notified parents by phone and email, Patten said.
"While these acts of vandalism were done after hours, when no kids were in the building, we take it very seriously," he said.
School and district leaders are trying to reassure parents that the school is safe. Patten said they are taking measures that include increased police patrols. Also, the district has increased lighting near the portable buildings and installed surveillance cameras.
He said parents who wish to keep their students home from school on Monday can do so.
"We encourage them to do what's in the best interest of their student," he said, adding, "the staff is prepared to have a great day at school Monday."