AFTER a man created a disturbance at Oleai Elementary School, it went into lockdown on Wednesday morning to ensure the safety of students, staff and individuals on campus.
School officials declined to comment, but Variety learned that the man causing a disturbance was removed by Department of Public Safety officers.
“No firearm or injuries to anyone. The subject was removed from the area,” a DPS source said.
Another DPS source told Variety that a parent called DPS central office stating that someone was going to kill his son who is a student at OES.
“The parent went to the school to make sure his son was okay, but the parent became aggressive and started punching the school’s office door. The principal called police. The parent later saw his son and calmed down. Police officers later transported him to the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation where he voluntarily admitted himself to the psych ward,” the source added.
In an official public advisory, the Public School System stated:
“At about 11 a.m. today, Feb. 15, 2023, Oleai Elementary School initiated a school lockdown to ensure the safety of all students, staff, and individuals on campus. The Department of Public Safety was called immediately to provide patrol, guidance, and initiate further investigation.
“At about 11:17 a.m., DPS and OES gave the all-clear signal.
“All students and staff are safe and there are no immediate threats to OEA or PSS at this time.
“OES dismissal time remains at 2 p.m.
“We thank you stakeholders and community partners for your patience, assistance, and cooperation.”
Reminder
Commissioner of Education Dr. Alfred B. Ada is reminding the general public that anyone entering any public school campus on Saipan, Tinian and Rota is required to sign up at the school’s main or administration office.
Everyone must adhere to this strict protocol, Ada added.
Following the spate of incidents in U.S. schools, he said PSS has also reinforced the security and surveillance monitoring system at all 20 campuses, including the Head Start/Early Head Start centers on Saipan, Tinian and Rota.
Ada said, “Cameras and other monitoring devices have been installed and are active 24/7 on all parts of all school campuses to ensure the safety and security of students, staff, parents and the public in general.”
The Oleai Elementary School campus on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, 12:38 p.m.
