After a few incidents in recent days involving Opelika Middle School, Dr. Mark Neighbors addressed concerns parents may have in a Press Conference. Below is the press release that lead to the press conference today (March 1st) at Opelika Middle School:
Press Release from Opelika City Schools:
At approximately 4:15 Wednesday, February 28, 2018 it was reported that as he was exiting the school bus at his home, an Opelika Middle School student dropped an unloaded BB pistol out of his backpack. The unloaded BB pistol was recovered by the Opelika City Schools bus driver and turned in to the OCS Transportation Director. The incident is being investigated by the Opelika City Schools and the Opelika Police Department. At this time, no threats or planned action was identified.
The second incident: This morning at approximately 9:00 a.m. Opelika Middle School administrators were notified by a parent of a series of threatening social media messages that were sent to her son last night. The messages were addressed to the students involved and not towards Opelika Middle School. The Opelika Police Department was immediately notified.
The students involved were identified and are currently being interviewed by the OPD regarding the situation. Based on the information received, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. No specific threats were made to Opelika Middle School.
The above incidents are separate and unrelated. The Opelika Police Department is increasing patrols and will have an increased office presence at all Opelika City School campuses to ensure the safety and well-being of every student.
For more information, contact Becky Brown, Public Relations Coordinator, 334-524-9720 or Captain Bobby Kilgore, 334-705-5231.