Owatonna High School Imposes Additional Safety Measures

Increased safety measures were put into action at Owatonna High School on Monday, December 6 in a proactive move according to a story by the OHS Magnet news organization. School administration worked with the Owatonna Police Department to investigate social media posts over the weekend.

High school principal Kory Kath emailed families Friday regarding social media chatter, "Whenever an allegation that concerns student safety is brought to our attention we immediately begin an investigation and institute appropriate safety measuges, including working with local law enforcement when and if needed."

"Student safety and well-being are our number one priorities. Our high school is a safe and secure environment, with locked doors and building supervisors who check anyone entering the building," Kath included.

An email from superintendent Jeff Elstad on Sunday stated that a weekend investigation by administration and Owatonna police found social media posts to be unsubstantiated. He also announced "the following safety measures to assure the safety of our students and staff," states the Magnet story.

• Just two entrances are available for students, the main one and the School St. door No. 15.
• Bags will be checked upon entering the building.
• All doors are to be locked during the school day.
• More supervision and law enforcement presence to occur on and near the campus.

Kath also indicated, "Students who have any concerns about safety are strongly encouraged to report them to any adult in the building. We work diligently to ensure that our students have a safe and welcoming environment in which to learn."

Credit to Valentina Contreras who wrote the story for the OHS Magnet.

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