Rumors that violence could erupt at Nansemond River High School are being taken seriously by school administration.

Principal Thomas W. McLemore Jr., in a letter sent home with students Friday, advised parents that the school has investigated rumors that students may be the target of violence.

&uot;Our administrative team and resource officer have been actively investigating every rumor that we have heard and we will continue to do so,&uot; he wrote in the letter.

&uot;I want you to feel certain that the safety of everyone in this building is my number one priority…and a responsibility I do not take lightly.

&uot;Our administrative team and resource officer are constantly visible during the school day,&uot; he added.

&uot;We often have at least two additional Suffolk police officers as well as our two safety monitors in the building for added support.

&uot;I feel that we have such an open relationship with our students that this enables them to speak with us freely about their concerns.&uot;

Earlier this week, after receiving several calls from citizens, the News-Herald reported that a rumor of a hit list naming students and teachers was circulating around school.

School officials decided to send the letter in response to the high volume of telephone calls McLemore has been receiving.

&uot;Nothing new has turned up,&uot; said Bethanne Bradshaw, spokeswoman for the Suffolk Public Schools.

&uot;We wanted everyone to know we are investigating everything that has been brought to our attention…and that students should feel safe.&uot;

allison.williams@suffolknewsherald.com