UPDATE 3:15 pm: The lock out at Whitecourt Central School, Percy Baxter School and St. Mary's School was cleared at 3:15 pm today.

This afternoon, Northern Gateway Public Schools was contacted and advised by Whitecourt RCMP to initiate a Lock Out due to a bank robbery that took place in the vicinity of the three schools. Schools responded to the call in accordance with NGPS protocol. 

A Lock Out, also known as A Hold and Secure, is initiated when there is a situation taking place in the community that is not related to the school. During a Lock Out, activities continue inside the building, but all doors are locked and no one is allowed to enter or exit the school. No one, other than law enforcement, is permitted access to the building until the Lock Out has been cleared.

Our schools are committed to the safety and education of all our students. We also want to clearly communicate with parents about safety issues when they arise; however, to ensure the safety of students and staff and the accuracy of the information being shared, no external communication, other than with the RCMP, is permitted. Staff and phone lines are kept free in order to not hamper the ability of staff and responders to effectively handle the situation. Official communication to parents, guardians and the community is done as soon as factual information can be confirmed and shared.

For more information on the incident in Whitecourt today please contact the Whitecourt RCMP detachment.