May 12, 2025

We want families and students aware of a dangerous viral trend circulating on social media, particularly TikTok, that has impacted schools across the country. This trend encourages students to insert metal or other conductive objects (such as paperclips, pushpins, aluminum foil, and mechanical pencils) into the keys or ports of their school-issued Chromebooks in an attempt to start a fire. This behavior is very dangerous: it can cause a fire and release toxic vapors, putting the student and others at serious risk.

District 202 policy and the Student Handbook emphasize the importance of respecting school property. Students who engage in this activity will face disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Handbook. They may also face legal consequences, including charges such as arson, as intentionally damaging property or putting others in danger can be considered a criminal offense.

As a reminder, any intentional damage to a Chromebook will result in the full cost of replacement ($300 per device) being charged to the student’s account.

How Families Can Help
Please speak with your student about the risks of social media challenges that encourage unsafe behavior. Reinforce the importance of using school technology responsibly, and remind them to report any concerning behavior to a staff member.

At ETHS, we ask our community to ACT: Acknowledge, Care, Tell. To submit an anonymous tip, text "ETHS" followed by your message to CRIMES (274637). All tips are confidential and monitored 24/7 through the Text-A-Tip program. In an emergency, always call 911.

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community safe.