Officials with the Omaha Public Schools have announced on Tuesday that the two students involved in a student theft incident involving a deaf student have been disciplined.
Last week, Senior Alex Hernandez said. two male students took his backpack during lunch last Wednesday and dumped his tablet, school supplies, homework and debit card in a toilet. It also contained a battery for his cochlear implant - without it, he can't hear.
Hernandez says he's received much support from both close friends and people all over the country since KMTV first reported the story.
OPS has released this following statement:
"We are aware of the situation involving theft of a student¹s property that occurred last week at Burke High School.
This situation was an isolated incident. It involved theft of property that was later discarded, captured on photo by students and shared on social media. Interviews with the students involved revealed they did not know each other.
Due to student privacy laws, we are unable to provide specific details regarding students involved or any disciplinary actions that may have been taken, but we do want to assure you that we are working with all parties involved and their parents.
The district immediately reached out to parents about this situation last week to share the facts and explain how we were addressing the situation.
We were not given any indication that there were further concerns by the parents during or following our conversations.
Appropriate disciplinary action is being taken with students involved with the theft. We had a follow-up meeting with parents today.
It was a very productive Meeting. Additional Information: OPS strives to provide a safe learning environment for all students.
Had the situation been assessed and classified as a bullying situation, we take those reports and situations very seriously as well, and address them Immediately.
Below are some of the steps we take to prevent bullying:
- Bullying protocol information is included in the School district's due process handbook.
- Bullying prevention and positive relationship lessons are embedded in various curriculum areas throughout a student¹s academic career.
- Any student or parent who suspects bullying, should contact their building administrator immediately. "
Letter sent to parents:
