SOUTH POINT, Ohio (WSAZ) – Pointers are still reeling after South Point Elementary School Principal Bill Christian was stabbed at the school last week.

“Our beloved Mr. Christian will make a full recovery and is excited to be reunited with his staff and students,” said Board President Tifanie Arbogast.

Ashley Pennington, the South Point Elementary School student’s mother, said she was grateful for Christian’s bravery.

“He risked his life, and I consider that a true hero,” Pennington said.

Schools were closed following the incident and students in the area are expected to return to classes on November 6.

The Board of Education meeting began administrative session Friday to talk about safety measures to be taken at the school.

As they emerged from the executive session, Arbogast said, “We have taken additional security measures to ensure the safety of all students and staff. “We are increasing the police presence in all buildings moving forward.”

South Point Police Chief Chris Majher said the increased presence will be seen the week students return.

“I want to reassure the public, my child will be going back to school on Wednesday. I have no fear, no more fear than I had before as a parent,” Chief Majher said.

Meanwhile, parents are preparing to send their children back.

“Going back to school is a little scary for them. But when we parents talk to them and explain to them that everything will be fine. I think it would be okay for them to go back to school,” Pennington said.

School officials said they could not provide detailed information about the executive session due to the safety of students.

Chief Majher said although things went “smoothly” at the scene, the parents felt like they were being left out of the action. To make sure this doesn’t happen in the future, he will be adding a “Public Communications Officer” position to his department to help improve communications.

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