Building lockout cancelled

For Immediate Release

Update on South Bend School District Lockout

SOUTH BEND, WA, May 11, 2023 - South Bend School District is pleased to report that the precautionary building lockout, initiated earlier today across the district, has been lifted without incident.

At approximately 11:05 am, the district received information about a possible active shooter situation at Ilwaco School District. Similar threats were also reported at neighboring districts in the region. Though no threat was made toward South Bend, given the circumstances and in the best interest of student and staff safety, a decision was promptly made to initiate a building lockout. This meant that no one was permitted to enter or exit the buildings.

Shortly after, we received information that the reported incident in Ilwaco was not an active shooter situation. The initial report was based on a 911 call during which gunshots were heard on the phone before the call was disconnected. Similar incidents have occurred in Washington State this week.

Despite the updated information, the lockout was maintained until South Bend Police Department (SBPD) officers could verify that no threat was imminent for South Bend Schools. At or around noon, SBPD's Chief Luke Stigall confirmed the situation in Ilwaco was all-clear and that there was no threat to South Bend schools.  SBPD officers arrived on campus to provide support, the lockout ended at approximately 12:10 pm.

Throughout this event, communication remained a top priority. All building administrators were consistently updated and parents were promptly informed of the lockout and reassured that all safety precautions were being taken. Information was also disseminated via the district's social media platforms. A second call was made to parents notifying them of the end of the lockout.

South Bend School District would like to extend its gratitude to all building principals, administrators, office staff, teachers, and other personnel for their professionalism, dedication, and quick response during this event. Their efforts ensured the safety of our students and a smooth operation under challenging circumstances.  We also wish to thank South Bend Police Department for their constant communication, and Pacific County Emergency Management director Scott McDougall for his prompt response.

Questions or concerns regarding this incident can be addressed to your respective building principal or directly to the district at jtienhaa@southbendschools.org.