Update: D158 explains the reason behind lockdowns at two Harmony Road campuses

My Huntley News reported that on Wednesday, Oct. 6, Huntley High School (HHS) entered into a “Hold in Place and Teach” lockdown in which no students, staff, or visitors were permitted to leave or enter the school building.

Leggee Elementary School, the second Huntley Community School District 158 (D158) campus located on Harmony Road, also entered into a “Secure the Building and Teach” lockdown while a potential safety concern at HHS was being investigated, said a statement from Alex LeMoine, D158’s communications and public relations director.

HHS Principal Marcus Belin went further to explain the reason for the lockdown at the high school.

“Our administration was informed by multiple sources at approximately 1:30 p.m. of the potential for a weapon to be brought on school grounds before the start of 8th hour, which begins at 1:39 p.m.,” said Belin.

“In response, our building was placed on a ‘Hold in Place and Teach’ at approximately 1:45 p.m. Building administrators and law enforcement officers responded immediately to investigate this report and secure the building. Families were notified of the situation at approximately 1:50 p.m. and students remained supervised and learning in our classrooms.”

Belin continued by detailing the protocols of a “Hold in Place and Teach.”

“A ‘Hold in Place and Teach’ means that hallways and common spaces were cleared, students and staff were required to stay in their classrooms, and no students, staff, or visitors were allowed on or off of our campus. However, in this situation, teachers and staff were still able to meet our students’ varying needs, allow them safe access to restrooms, and ensure that all health concerns were addressed on an individual basis,” said Belin in his statement.

D158 administrators and the Huntley Police Department determined at approximately 3:15 p.m., that there was no credible threat to student or staff safety.

HHS students were dismissed via a staggered release shortly after, with increased police presence. Students at Leggee Elementary were also dismissed when no threat to safety was determined, according to LeMoine.

“We know our families experienced significant delays and increased traffic on Harmony Road and we understand the frustration this caused. We want to thank you for your ongoing patience as we worked to ensure the safety of each student on our campuses and expedite their safe return home. Of course, these situations are never ideal, but we appreciate our families’ understanding and support as we continue to respond and act with the safety of our students and staff at the forefront of all of our decision making,” the statement from LeMoine read.

LeMoine added that district staff would be providing additional support to students throughout the day on Oct. 7 and as needed.

“If you or your student is looking for resources and support, please contact your child’s teacher or building administration at any time,” she said.