Let’s start with what matters most: as of Wednesday, September 2, 2026, KCS has not received a threat directed at the district or any KCS school in connection with the social media videos known as the “Cat in the Hat” trend. The Kanawha County Schools (KCS) Security Department is aware of the videos, has been monitoring them, and will continue to do so. Law enforcement is also aware and remains in contact with KCS about any new information or concerns.

Versions of these videos are circulating on social media and generally follow a similar format. The videos appear to show someone dressed as the Cat in the Hat while music plays. The person does not speak. Instead, text on the screen says, “I’m coming for you,” followed by the name of a general area or a specific location.

One video says the character is coming to Kanawha County on Saturday, September 5, 2026. It does not mention KCS or name any KCS school.

Wording like this can feel unsettling, especially when it names our county. KCS is sharing this information for awareness, not because the district has received a threat. Students, staff, families, and community members should know that KCS is communicating with law enforcement and watching the trend closely. The information below answers common questions about the trend and what families and students should know.

FAQs: “Cat in the Hat” Social Media Trend

Q: What is the “Cat in the Hat” trend?

A: These videos are circulating on social media and generally appear to show someone dressed as the Cat in the Hat walking around while music plays. The scenes are often outside at night or inside what appears to be a home. The person does not speak, and the message appears as text on the screen. Videos following this trend have appeared in communities across the country, sometimes naming a specific place.

Q: Why is Kanawha County Schools addressing this trend if KCS has not received a threat?

A: One of the accounts participating in the trend recently posted a video referencing Kanawha County and Saturday, September 5, 2026. The video does not mention KCS or any KCS school. Local law enforcement issued a release confirming that it is aware of the video and is monitoring the trend. Because our county was named, KCS Security is also watching the situation closely, sharing information with families, and staying in contact with law enforcement.

Q: Are schools operating normally?

A: Yes. KCS schools are operating on their normal schedules. As of Wednesday, September 2, 2026, KCS has not received a threat directed at the district or any KCS school. KCS is not aware of any KCS school being named in these videos. Local law enforcement will have an increased presence around schools as a precaution. KCS Security will remain in contact with law enforcement and review any new information.

Q: What should my student do if they see one of these videos online?

A: KCS encourages students not to like, comment on, or share these videos. If your student sees a post that references KCS or names a KCS school, student, employee, or location, they should report it to a parent or caregiver, a school staff member, or law enforcement. Parents and caregivers who receive that information should then contact the school or law enforcement. Call 911 only if a post describes an immediate threat or danger.

What KCS Wants Families to Know

These videos can sound scary, especially when they mention a familiar place.