Seventy percent of Westside High School students did not attend classes Friday following a week of threatening messages and vandalism.

School administrators said there was added security and more cameras installed, but 1,200 students did not show up.

There will be increased security for Saturday night’s prom as well.

Officials said three students involved in copycat incidents have been identified and are being dealt with. A police spokesperson said no citations have been issued regarding the copycat cases, but that is still a possibility. The students were interviewed and the case will be referred to the county attorney to decide if these were crimes.

Westside had a 25 percent absence rate on Thursday when messages were sent to parents of the middle school and high school updating them on plans for Friday.

The school is receiving extra attention after a threatening message was found in a bathroom and 14 students' cars were vandalized. The district sent messages home to parents stating that the school remains safe.

The message from middle school Principal Eric Weber reads:

"In light of the threatening messages reported at Westside High School this week, we've noticed an increase in copycat incidents in our building. Because of this, we are working with police and our staff on these issues, and will have increased security inside and around the middle school.

"Please talk to your student about the seriousness of this. If your son or daughter has any information, please have them share that with an administrator or a staff member. We want to ensure a safe environment for all students. Thank you for your help with this situation."

The message from high school Principal Pat Hutchings reads:

"I wanted to update you about the steps we're taking to ensure student and staff safety in our building tomorrow. We understand your concerns, and while it may seem like information is not forthcoming, I can assure you we're working hand in hand with police to provide a safe environment for your students.

"After meeting extensively with police, we have reviewed security procedures with staff and increased both inside and outside police presence, both uniformed and plainclothes officers. The Omaha Police canine unit will also be on our campus.

"Thanks to tips by students, working with police, we have identified three students who participated in copycat incidents on our campus. We have dealt with these students according to our code of conduct and legal action is pending.

"I hope this information will help you make an informed decision about sending your student to school tomorrow, but if you have additional questions, please call. Thank you for your continued help with this case."