Officials say several high school students in Union County hacked into their schools' computer systems to try and change their grades.

Parents were notified Wednesday about the data breach in the Elizabeth School District.

Schools Spokesman Pat Politano says one student gained access to the system by stealing a teacher's password. He says other students accessed attendance records and tried unsuccessfully to change grades.

Officials say the breaches happened at various schools in the district.

District Superintendent Olga Hugelmeyer says the consequences for those involved are "likely to be severe." The district says police have been notified.

Hugelmeyer said in a letter to parents, “I'm personally saddened and embarrassed by this discovery, but am also very determined and committed to address this issue and continue our support of every student and providing them the innovative and personalized learning environment in which they can achieve excellence and fulfill their dreams."

Hugelmeyer declined further comment about the incident, citing student privacy laws.

District officials did say that they would be increasing security measures on all school computers.