OTTUMWA -- Parents are still fuming over the response of Ottumwa school officials after rumors of a gun were unfounded.
After more than ten fights in the past two weeks, rumors of a gun being brought to school swarmed the internet on Thursday. Parents didn’t know at the time if the rumors were true. No weapons were found on school property.
Mark Hanson, Ottumwa high school principal, sent out a letter on the schools website which you can view here assuring parents that the district and police were working hard to keep students safe. He does however regret when his message was delivered.
“We put out an informational piece on our website,” said Hanson. “Maybe that came a little bit late. I think if we had to do over again we would probably try to get a piece like that out sooner in the day.”
In the letter, Hanson asks parents to monitor their child’s online computer use. Today counselors and teachers spoke with some of the students who were involved in fights. Hanson acknowledges that students won’t make a total change in attitude but hopefully it will defuse any trouble in the future.
“Can I honestly say that students are going to love each other after these mediations? No not necessarily, but what we’re trying to do is get a point where we can go on from here, coexist peacefully and get back to the business of education.”
Cyber-bullying could be to blame for the increase in fights at the high school. Hanson says the ability to remain anonymous and bully online can cause problems in the classroom.
“People do feel freer to say things online because they aren’t in the same room as the other person and they’re more comfortable to make derogatory remarks.”
Hanson also added that there will be more of a police presence during lunch hours at the high school cafeteria.
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