Employee attempts suicide at DeKalb school

Towers High School was placed on lockdown Monday after an employee attempted suicide while classes were in session, DeKalb County school officials said.

The incident occurred during the school’s second period, causing a Level 2 lockdown, “during which there is no movement within the building,” DeKalb schools region V superintendent Bernetta Jones said in a letter to parents.

“At no time was the safety and security of students or other staff members in jeopardy,” Jones said. “We continue to hold educating and keeping students safe as our top priority. Counselors and social workers will be available for students and staff who need to talk with someone.”

According to the letter, school administrators followed the district’s suicide protocol, which included a school social worker’s involvement and a 911 call.

DeKalb County School District Public Safety remained at the school to secure the area where the incident occurred and remained on campus until dismissal, Jones said.

The employee was not named. No other details were released.

This is the second reported suicide attempt by a school employee in metro Atlanta in just over two months.

On Aug. 17, a math teacher at Lithia Springs High School shot himself inside a classroom about an hour before classes began.