MOAB, Utah – High school officials in Utah have been put on alert following disruptions caused by a student using a device to interfere with school technology. The incident, which occurred at Grand County High School in Moab, left teachers and staff perplexed as various devices malfunctioned unexpectedly.

In early January 2024, a teacher at Grand County High School noticed a peculiar pattern of technology glitches in her classroom. The teacher, who opted not to be interviewed, experienced devices turning on and off intermittently, disrupting the flow of her lessons. Principal Dr. Todd Thompson described the situation as disruptive and unsettling, with the teacher even suspecting paranormal activity.

Unusual Activity Raises Concerns

The disruptions extended beyond the classroom, affecting school employees’ smartphones and office computers. It was only after students reported the issue to administrators that the cause was identified as a handheld device known as Flipper Zero. This device, capable of manipulating various technologies, was used by the student to disrupt classroom activities.

We acted swiftly to remove the device from our campus and ensure the safety of our students and staff, remarked Principal Thompson.

The Impact of the Flipper Zero

Seamus Hannigan, a Network Engineer for the Grand County School District, emphasized the potential dangers of such devices when misused. Despite being initially unaware of the specific device causing the disruptions, the school’s IT department worked to address the issues promptly. Hannigan stressed the need for caution and awareness, as even seemingly harmless devices can have significant consequences in the wrong hands.

Addressing Security Concerns

The disruptive actions of the student using the Flipper Zero resulted in permanent damage to a cell phone and necessitated security measures to reset and reinforce various school devices. The incident not only raised security concerns but also had a profound impact on teachers and students alike.

Cautionary Measures and Disciplinary Action

Authorities, including school administrators and local police, urged parents to be vigilant and cautioned against purchasing such devices for their children. James Blanton, Assistant Police Chief with the Moab City Police Department, emphasized the potential legal ramifications of disrupting school operations.

The student responsible for the disruptions faced disciplinary action but was not expelled. Despite the ordeal, the impacted teacher returned to the classroom, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Education

As schools navigate evolving technological landscapes, incidents like these highlight the importance of proactive security measures and parental vigilance. Ensuring a safe and productive learning environment remains paramount, with educators and authorities working together to address emerging challenges.

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By Paul Revere

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