The Columbia County School District confirmed two separate student incidents on Thursday, with administrators at Lakeside High School and Evans Elementary each sending letters to parents emphasizing safety and accountability.
Altercation reported at Lakeside High School
At Lakeside High School, Principal Juliet King notified parents that a student was struck by two other students after exiting a restroom stall Thursday morning.
The letter stated that the appropriate students involved are being held accountable under the district’s code of conduct and will also face criminal charges.
“Safety of students and staff is a top priority,” the letter read. “We take incidents such as these extremely seriously and will investigate fully. Please rest assured that inappropriate physical contact of any nature is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
Administrators encouraged parents and students to report any suspicious or unsafe behavior to staff or the Columbia County School District Police, adding the reminder, “If you see something, say something.”
Evans Elementary reports student found with knife
Later the same day, Evans Elementary School Principal Tonia Ellis issued a separate notice to families regarding a fourth-grade student found in possession of a knife.
“In order to keep you informed we are notifying you that a 4th-grade student was found in possession of a knife on campus,” said Principal Ellis. “Upon further investigation, the knife was shown to students on school bus route 2, however, no direct threat was made to the school, students or staff. The student is being held accountable according to the code of conduct.”
The letter urged parents to discuss with their children the dangers of bringing inappropriate items to school, noting that doing so can result in serious disciplinary consequences.
Both schools reiterated the district’s message of collaboration and vigilance to maintain a safe, positive environment for all students and staff.
