Moshannon Valley students sent home after ‘soft lockdown,’ backpacks banned

UPDATE: HOUTZDALE, Pa. (WTAJ) — State police released new details Tuesday after students at Moshannon Valley School District were sent home early.

According to troopers, they received a report about a student at the high school who was in possession of a weapon. It was later learned that the student, a 15-year-old male, had said that he had a gun but troopers did not find one.

The teen was taken into custody after he was allegedly found to have a box cutter-style knife in his backpack. He was released to Clearfield County Juvenile Probation.

Following the incident, School District Superintendent John Zesiger told parents and families in an email that students can no longer carry backpacks or bags during school.

ORIGINAL STORY — Students at the Moshannon Valley School District were sent home Tuesday morning after a soft lockdown prompting the school to make a change.

In a social media post , School District Director Zane Hensal said there was no immediate threat to any students or staff and the dismissal is a precaution to ensure the safety of students while state police investigate.

Superintendent John Zesiger told parents and families in an email that a staff member saw a student trying to hide an object for cutting when called to the high school office. Zesiger added that backpacks can no longer be carried by students.

“Effective immediately, students will no longer be permitted to bring in backpacks, bags, duffle bags, or large purses into school buildings during the school day. The District will be releasing a protocol for student-athletes and athletic bags in the near future. We apologize and share your concerns and will provide more information if we are able when it is available,” Zesiger said.

This comes after a string of allegations that a student brought a gun to the school on two separate occasions.

The first happened Friday night during a football game and the other occurred Saturday at the district’s homecoming dance. In both cases, state police said no weapon was ever found. The school is holding an emergency meeting on Tuesday night set for 5:30 p.m.

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WTAJ will be attending the meeting and this story will be updated when more information becomes available.

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