CHICAGO — After a frightening and tragic night in Paris, Chicago Public Schools and University of Chicago officials say that all students currently in the French capital are safe and accounted for.
Paris was hit by "apparently coordinated" terrorist attacks Friday night, including a shooting rampage, bombs and grenades and a hostage situation that left at least 100 people dead and led French President Francois Hollande to declare a state of emergency. France placed "severe restrictions" on border crossings.
Students from Chicago's Lincoln Elementary and Chicago Agricultural High School are currently in Paris.
"CPS students on school trips to Paris are accounted for and safe," said CPS spokeswoman Emily Bittner in an emailed statement.
"As you may know, 22 students and 5 teachers from Chicago Ag arrived in Paris earlier today for an exchange program. ... they are all safe and together. They are contacting their families now," wrote Ag School Principal William Hook, according to an email provided to DNAinfo Chicago.
CPS did not immediately comment on the number or status of Lincoln Elementary staff in Paris.
Officials at University of Chicago also confirmed that students and staff are safe, according to an emailed statement: "All 58 undergraduates who are taking courses in France this quarter at the Center in Paris have contacted center personnel and are accounted for. The University also has confirmed that the faculty members, staff and graduate students at the center are safe."
U. of C. also encouraged any students or members of the university community reach out for support. A list of resources is here.
Chicago Police also released a statement Friday night: "Currently there is no credible threat or nexus to Chicago. In the interest of public safety, we remain in constant contact with our federal and international partners to evaluate and respond to any changes in intelligence."
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