Instituto Nacional Suspends In-Person Classes Following Violent Threats

The Instituto Nacional, one of Chile’s most historic secondary schools, shifted to remote learning starting Monday, June 17, following the circulation of videos containing explicit threats of a school shooting. The decision, aimed at ensuring the safety of the educational community, follows reports that the threats involved images of ballistic materials, according to statements from the Municipality of Santiago.

How the Threats Originated

The investigation into the threats centers on a group of former students recently expelled from the institution. According to the Servicio Local de Educación Pública (SLEP) Santiago Centro, the individuals allegedly distributed videos depicting firearms as an act of retaliation for their removal from the school. Authorities identified these materials on Thursday, June 13, prompting the administration to suspend all classes for the following Friday before transitioning to an online format.

What Actions Are Authorities Taking?

The SLEP Santiago Centro, led by Executive Director Paulina Retamales, has initiated formal legal proceedings. The agency confirmed that it is coordinating with the Ministerio Público to file a criminal complaint against those responsible for the threats. This legal action seeks to hold the individuals accountable for the intimidation and the disruption of school operations.

Meanwhile, Santiago Mayor Mario Desbordes has criticized the administrative handling of the situation. Desbordes alleged that the SLEP failed to provide sufficient evidence to the Corte de Apelaciones de Santiago to support the expulsion process, characterizing the oversight as negligence. The mayor has signaled that the municipality is reviewing further legal steps regarding the school’s ongoing security challenges, including a recent physical assault on a journalist near the campus.

Why School Security Is a Growing Concern

The incident at the Instituto Nacional highlights a broader tension between school administrators and municipal authorities regarding safety protocols. Unlike private institutions, the Instituto Nacional operates under the public service delivery model of the SLEP, which has faced scrutiny over its ability to manage disciplinary issues effectively.

Chronology of Events

• June 13: Videos containing ballistic threats are identified; the school suspends classes for Friday.
• June 14: Authorities confirm the involvement of former students in the threat.
• June 17: The institution officially transitions to an online instruction model.

What Happens Next?

The school will continue to operate remotely while the Public Prosecutor’s Office conducts its investigation. The transition to virtual classes serves as a temporary security buffer while police assess the credibility and reach of the threats. Future decisions regarding a return to in-person instruction will depend on the outcome of the ongoing criminal investigation and the implementation of new safety measures on campus.