Round Lake-area schools closed over concerns about expelled student

Round Lake Area Unit District 116 schools were closed Thursday over concerns about an expelled student who authorities say hit a staff member Tuesday and attempted to enter district property Wednesday.

The former student is accused of striking the staff member after a school board meeting Tuesday night, officials said.

Round Lake police said the juvenile then fled and could not be found despite an extensive search.

Late Wednesday afternoon, school officials say, the student trespassed at the operations service center, where the district's school buses are kept, at 811 Sunset Drive in Round Lake.

Round Lake Police Chief David Prus said it did not appear the student was trying to break into the facility.

As a precaution, Round Lake High School students were brought to the football stadium and then allowed back into the school, officials said.

Police apprehended the student at his home about 9 p.m. Wednesday, and he was taken to Lake County Juvenile Detention Center in Vernon Hills, authorities said.

Prus said his officers are recommending the teen be charged with aggravated battery and trespassing.

District officials said the decision to close schools was made Wednesday evening. Police informed school officials about 9:45 p.m. that the teen had been apprehended.

"Due to the late time and the unknown factor of when the student would be released, district officials made the decision to cancel school to ensure the safety of all students," district spokeswoman Sarah LeBlanc said.

Classes are expected to resume Friday, but with an enhanced police presence.