MVSD initiated a lockdown today following an incident in which an individual was spotted in a car brandishing a “dangerous weapon.” The following notice, obtained from Superintendent Grant Storey, was sent to families of MVSD students.
10/16 District Wide Lockdown Update
MVSD Families,
Today shortly after noon, while LBHS students were at lunch, students in the LBHS parking lot brought to staff attention a suspicious vehicle with an individual brandishing a dangerous weapon. Staff, under the direction of Principals Darwood, Gutzler and Mounsey immediately initiated lockdown procedures. Schools followed Emergency Operations Procedures specific to their building and responsive to the age and development of their students. Schools remained in lockdown until law enforcement arrived and it was confirmed that the vehicle had left campus. The guidance to staff and students then downgraded to “secure the building/teach in place”, until 1:09 PM when law enforcement gave us the all clear to return to normal operations. Liberty Bell concluded their day with a previously planned all school pep assembly in which Principal Darwood assured safety and praised students and staff for doing their part.
What we know is that this was a real threat that is unrelated to previous incidents. Thanks to the quick, calm thinking of our staff and students, quick response of our local law enforcement, and adherence to our emergency operation procedures we were able to maintain the safety and security of our students and staff. The detailed thinking of Principal Darwood and bravery of student witnesses aided Okanogan County Sheriff’s Deputies, with assistance from the Winthrop Marshall’s office, in apprehending the suspect driving the suspicious vehicle.
We want to acknowledge that this was a frightening experience for everyone involved. Our staff continues to support all of our students. For parents who wish to process these events with their children at home we encourage you to to visit this resource: Helping Children Cope
If you have questions about how this impacts your child’s education please reach out to your child’s principal. We will follow up with additional details as we are able.
In Community,
MVSD Adminsitration
