Lockout imposed at local schools for a second day

McCOOK, Neb. — After being contacted by the Red Willow County Sheriff’s office Monday, McCook High School and McCook Junior High were in a “lockout” mode, that is continuing today.

Around 9 a.m. on Monday, an individual had contacted the sheriff’s office about wanting to get their child from the school and school administration was notified shortly after, said McCook Public Schools Superintendent, Grant Norgaard.

Norgaard emphasized the individual never made a threat against the school or contacted the school but the lockout was put into effect to be on the safe side.

‘I don’t think we’re over-reacting … it’s just providing an extra layer of safety” during this time, he said.

Parents were notified early this morning that the lockout was continuing today. Norgaard said he and other members of the administration would be meeting with law enforcement this afternoon.

In a lockout, classes progress as scheduled but visitors must call before coming to the school and will be met outside by an administrator before being allowed inside. Students who leave the school are escorted out by a teacher or staff member.

Norgaard said he appreciated the police department’s cooperation and visibility on the school campuses.