Schools

Deer Park Is Safe, Principal Says After Safety Scare at School

An incident last week has some parents questioning safety.

The Deer Park Elementary Families Facebook Page was buzzing all weekend about an incident that took place at the school on Friday, Dec. 9.

Students participating in the Jingle Bell Jog at the school reported hearing threats from a person in the woods nearby. "I'm gonna kill you," was what the person reportedly said according to statements by students published on the Facebook page. While the school staff found no evidence of a person in the woods, parents still expressed concern for their children's safety. Others questioned why the school had not alerted parents.

Deer Park Principal Shirley Porebski issued this statement today, Dec. 12:

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Dear Deer Park Families,

I would like to dispell the rumors that have been circulating recently in regards to an alleged situation that occurred last Friday at school. During Jingle Bell Jog at P.E., a few students reported that they thought they heard, and possibly saw,  someone in the woods call out to them and say that they were going to get them. Staff immediately went to the site to invesigate the situation, but saw or heard no one. Several staff members continued to thoroughly search the area throughout the remainder of the day. No one was ever found in the woods or on campus without authorization. Although conversations were held with the students involved, from our findings we were confident that no students were ever in danger. However, due to the inconsistant details reported, further conversations will be held. School Security and our Area Director are aware of the situation. Let me assure you that your child's safety is our top priority. Had the findings of our investigation been other than it was, you would have been officially notified through appropriate Deer Park channels. Unfortunately, like when children play the telephone game, the original story's details have been distorted. Again, let me reassure you that your children are safe. If you have further questions or concerns, please direct them to me personally. Thank you.

Shirley A. Porebski
Principal
Deer Park Elementary School
813-854-6031
fax:  813-854-6041


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