Neligh-Oakdale To Review Policy After Students Ditch School

Neligh-Oakdale will review its safety procedure after two fourth-graders left school grounds Tuesday afternoon without permission.

Superintendent Scott Gregory released a statement Wednesday morning regarding the two students.

The full statement is transcribed below:
"Yesterday, two fourth grade students left school property on their own volition. After reviewing video, the youth left at approximately 12:50. At 1:05, staff contacted administration and an all call was initiated.

"After a thorough search of the playground, buses, school building and parking lot, police and parents were notified. At 2:07 police left the school building and were in route to pick up the students on the south end of town who had been found by a relative. The students were back in class at approximately 2:15. This timeline has been verified through our video recording system.

"All steps were followed in our procedural manual, except for the official lock down, due to the fact that our building is already secure. As with any situation, steps followed may vary due to the unique nature of the situation.

​"In response to the situation, we will be convening our safety committee to revise and review our procedures with staff. Student safety is of paramount importance at Neligh-Oakdale Public Schools. It is my intention that actionable goals addressing concerns mentioned above, will be implemented and practiced with fidelity as soon as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions or concerns."