THUNDER BAY — A lockdown that led to students being dismissed from St. Patrick High School on Friday marked the sixth time a threat has plagued the school in a week.
In Friday's incident, the lockdown alarm bell sounded off in the school, frightening some students.
A Grade 12 student spoke about hearing the alarm bell for the first time.
"It's always been, 'This is a drill', but today was real, and everyone just kind of sprung into action." said St. Pat's student Anna Gaudino
"Even the teachers obviously didn't know; they didn't receive any warning whatsoever," said grade 11 student Sophia Tofinetti.
Tofinetti felt the teachers were also uneasy at the situation unfolding,
"They were probably more scared than we were. It was very scary for all of us, and especially not knowing what was happening was definitely a bit scarier."
Students were held in lockdown for two hours before being dismissed from the building. School buses were waiting to shuttle kids home while Thunder Bay Police remained on the property.
An email from the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board indicated students would be able to pick up their belongings in the afternoon while police presence continued.
The email also offered students an opportunity to talk to the board's mental health team, stating while the talks aren't mandatory, they would be beneficial to students.
"We know this has been a distressing time, and we want to thank families for their patience, understanding and support during this past week." the email stated.
The Catholic board also noted the school is expected to be open on Monday with regular classes scheduled.
The TBCDSB has previously stated it won't be providing interviews or comment.
Dougall Media also reached out to the elected board of trustees chairperson, Tony Romeo, to speak to the growing number of serious incidents and how they are affecting students.
Romeo refused to comment, citing the nature of the ongoing investigations.
Canadian Mental Health Association Thunder Bay stated there are several ways students, staff and families can receive assistance outside of the school's mental health team.
CMHA offers a free mental health crisis line that's available 24-7, year-round by calling (807) 346-8282.
The new suicide prevention emergency number, 988, is also available. This number can be called or texted.
