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• Year 2007

SACRAMENTO — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell today issued the following statement regarding the incident at Las Plumas High School Friday morning when an armed student fired shots into the air and then took fellow students hostage.

"I am distressed and concerned that such an incident occurred but very relieved that police were able to negotiate a peaceful resolution," O'Connell said. "I know that the situation was a terrifying ordeal for students, staff, and families and I am grateful that no one was harmed.

"I would like to thank school officials for their swift response at ordering a school-wide and also a district-wide lockdown to prevent additional students from going into harm's way. This is an example of school and law enforcement officials and members of the community working together cooperatively in the best interest of student safety.

"All California schools must have safety plans in place and staff members must be aware of how to effectively respond to any threat to the safety and well-being of students — from bullying to criminal or terrorist activity. Schools are required to coordinate with local law enforcement, emergency services personnel, and health and social service agencies on plans for crisis preparedness and response.

"My staff stands ready to work with local school officials to make certain that our schools remain safe havens for our students."