ADAMS TWP — A “noncredible” threat involving Mars Centennial School was reported this week, although school district officials said they will increase security in an effort to remain vigilant.

According to a letter to district parents from Wesley Shipley, superintendent, a report was made that a shooting would take place at the school Jan. 2, when students and staff are scheduled to return from winter break.

Shipley's letter indicates the district, along with the Adams Township Police Department, investigated the rumors and found them to be lacking merit. However, as a precaution, Shipley indicated the school will see an increased police presence on that day.

“Mars Area School District is grateful to our local police and other law enforcement personnel for their continued support of the district's efforts to ensure a safe and secure educational environment for our students, faculty and staff members,” Shipley's letter states.

On Friday, Shipley said he could not comment on the rumors, but thanked police for their assistance in “determining that there is no merit to the rumor.”

“I'm grateful to the police for their presence on Jan. 2,” he said.

In October, two 16-year-old girls were charged after a series of bomb threats were made in the district, leading to the cancellation of classes for two days. The girls were charged with terroristic threats causing the evacuation of a building, criminal conspiracy to commit terroristic threats and threatening to place or set weapons of mass destruction.