A cougar possibly being near a Vernon school had officials scrambling Thursday.
Reports of a cougar near Mission Hill Elementary were received at about 1 p.m.
“We have safety precautions that all kids are moved indoors,” said Bev Rundell, Vernon School District superintendent.
Staff immediately made all students aware of the situation and began calling parents to come and pick up students if they walk home after classes.
“We keep them there until someone picks them up,” said Rundell of the need to ensure the safety of the children.
Conservation officers were made aware of the reported cougar sighting.
While the large cats have been seen near schools in more rural areas, Rundell says the sighting is a surprise in Vernon.
“I can’t remember having this before.”
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The Vernon School District is reporting a cougar sighting at Mission Hill Elementary School at 1 p.m.
Parents are asked to pick up their children from the school if they walk home after classes.
More details will be provided as they become available.
