CALIFORNIA IN BRIEF : LA MESA : Attack on Student Puts School in Shock

Concerned parents guarded areas around a middle school on Friday, the day after an 11-year-old girl was sexually assaulted walking to the school. Three counselors and a school psychologist met with students at Parkway Middle School. “We’re traumatized by it. Everyone is in a state of shock,” said Principal Cal Strickland. “Even our teaching staff is having a real tough time dealing with this.” Strickland said teachers were advising students to walk in pairs to and from school and avoid talking with strangers. In a letter advising parents of the assault, the school urged not to let children arrive earlier than 30 minutes before classes begin. After the assault Thursday, school officials locked all gates surrounding the school and directed students to use only the front entrance.