Classmates have said Betts had a “hit list” in high school. The district has rejected media requests to release his disciplinary records, citing the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
RELATED: Dayton Shooting: Suspect ID’d, reportedly had ‘hit-list’ in high school
“With unity we will face this tragedy together. We have a strong community and at times like this we must band together to stay strong to support one another,” Betz said.
“We want to thank first responders who put themselves in harm’s way in that situation and are prepared on a daily basis to act first and act fast. As your school board, please know that the safety and security is at the heart of every decision we make,” she said.
>> Police: Man threatened school that Dayton shooter attended
Following the Oregon District shooting, Sugarcreek Twp. police said 44-year-old David Wallace Heilman made threats against the district.
Thursday night, Heilman remained in the Greene County Jail on suspicion of making false alarms.
Following Betz’s remarks, Superintendent Doug Cozad said, “As district superintendent and as a district resident for the past nine years, I know how important that as a community that we remain united and choose love over hate every day with every action.”
“We want to make sure our schools are safe and welcoming for all those who enter through our doors,” he said.
“This means that we try our best to provide an environment that encourages creativity, compassion and innovation, but this also means that we continuously monitor and improve the safety precautions we implement on our campuses,” Cozad said.
Before school starts Aug. 14, staff will receive crisis training from staff and the Greene County Educational Service Center.
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