PRESCOTT – Prescott School District released a statement Wednesday, April 29 concerning a comment a district employee allegedly posted about the White House Correspondent’s Dinner alleged assassination attempt on social media.

Though the district did not name the employee, a social media post circulating on area community Facebook pages alleges the comment came from Director of Pupil Services Sandy Strand.

"We are currently conducting an investigation and cannot comment on any specifics,” Superintendent Jim Reif said. “Know that we take the conduct of our employees seriously and always use our policies and procedures to ensure we continue to support the mission and vision of our district by providing a safe, secure, and supportive learning environment for our students."

Reif said the district notified all parents of the investigation.

The news release states:

“The Prescott School District is aware of a social media post made by a district staff member regarding the recent shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. We want to be clear that the views expressed in that post are not supported by the district and do not reflect our values.

“The district is addressing this matter in accordance with our board policies and established procedures. Because this is a personnel matter, we cannot share further details. However, please know that we take this situation seriously and are responding appropriately. 

“Our focus remains on ensuring a supportive and respectful environment in our schools, and we will continue to prioritize the wellbeing of our students.”

Board policy states that staff be placed on administrative leave during an investigation. To review school district policies, go to the “School Board” tab at prescott.k12.wi.us and click on “Operational Polices.”

According to the “New York Times,” Secret Service agents apprehended California tutor Cole Tomas Allen shortly after he charged the security gates shortly after 8:30 p.m. April 25 at the Washington Hilton, where President Donald Trump, the First Lady, and other officials were in attendance, armed with a 12-gauge pump action shotgun, a .38 caliber pistol, two knives and four daggers. He will appear in court on Thursday, April 30.