BOISE — Students at both Trail Wind Elementary and Les Bois Junior High in southeast Boise are having recess inside Tuesday after a mountain lion was reportedly spotted in the area about 10 a.m.
“This is the same safety procedure we follow in the event of a blizzard or any similar situation,” said Trail Wind Elementary Assistant Principal Jean Lovelace. “Teachers have activities for the students –- like playing board games, playing on their Chromebooks, or even doing dance or exercise activities.”
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game has told the schools that the mountain lion was spotted along highway 21.
“So right now, the mountain lion is several miles away (from the school),” Lovelace said.
“Chances are good the children will be safe by the time they adjourn for the day,” she said. “If the situation changes, we will initiate our standard safety procedures of notifying parents.”
The school sent the following notice to parents Tuesday morning:
Dear Trail Wind Parents/Guardians:
This is to notify you that we held indoor recess today due to a reported mountain lion sighting in the neighborhood. As you know, safety and security of our students and staff members is a top priority, so we wanted to exercise extra caution during this time.
The mountain lion was allegedly spotted by the Columbia Village Recreation Center, which is adjacent to our school. We immediately notified law enforcement and Idaho Fish and Game authorities, and they are currently investigating. We will continue to hold indoor recess until we receive updated information.
Anyone who thinks they've seen a mountain lion in populated areas where the animals don't belong is encouraged to call Ada County Sheriff at 208-377-6790 or the Idaho Department of Fish and game at 208-465-8465 or call 911.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Beverly Boyd
Principal
Trail Wind Elementary School
