KENNEDY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — On Tuesday, September 2, at approximately 11:50 a.m. during recess, a Kindergarten student wandered away from the playground at Sto-Rox Primary Center. Law enforcement was notified immediately and led the investigation while the district conducted a full search of the building and surrounding areas.
While the student was missing, police released information describing what the student was wearing, his approximate height and weight, and the toy he was holding.
After several hours of searching, with the assistance of police officers, firefighters, and EMS from Kennedy Township and the surrounding areas, the student was located in the woods behind the Primary Center using a drone. Shortly after, a member of the rescue team safely brought the student to first responders. Following an initial evaluation by EMS, the student was reunited with his family and taken to a hospital for further evaluation.
While the district is deeply relieved and grateful that the missing student was found safe, we also recognize the significant impact this incident had on the student’s family, our staff, and the community at large.
District leadership is conducting a thorough review of current practices. We are working closely with law enforcement partners to analyze this situation and its impact on our student safety procedures. At the same time, we are committed to ensuring students and staff have access to the resources and support they require in the wake of this incident.
We are profoundly thankful to the first responders — including those who traveled here from different townships and counties — for their swift and tireless efforts in the search and rescue mission. We also extend our gratitude to the Sto-Rox staff, community members, the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the Salvation Army, and other community partners who stepped forward to provide support during this difficult time.
Out of an abundance of caution, and to protect the privacy of the student and his family during the investigation, the district will not be releasing further details.