Isle of Wight County sheriff’s deputies are searching Smithfield High School after a bomb threat was called in this morning.

According to Lynn Briggs, spokeswoman for Isle of Wight County Schools, the threat was called in around 9:30 a.m., prompting evacuations at SHS and Smithfield Middle School, which adjoins the high school.

“They have been conducting a thorough search of both buildings,” Briggs said.

As of just after noon, deputies had completed their search of the middle school. Around 12:50 p.m., deputies gave the “all clear” for students to return to the high school.

“At this time, both schools will continue with normal operations for the remainder of the school day,” Briggs said. “We appreciate the diligence of law enforcement officers to ensure the buildings are safe for our students. We also wish to thank all students, staff, and families for their patience and cooperation during this event.”

During the evacuation, parents who wished to pick up their children were advised to do so at the middle school.  Any students who were released to parents during the evacuation must pick up their belongings from their school no later than 4 p.m., Briggs said.

This is a developing story. The Smithfield Times will provide updates as more details are learned.