Intruder able to enter grade school three times: "Shouldn't happen anywhere - much less at a school"

MILWAUKEE -- An intruder was able to enter a school in Milwaukee, and it has parents concerned, school officials taking steps to beef up security as police investigate.

At this point, it doesn't appear the intruder was after kids, but it's clear he was up to no good.

Intruder at St. Rose Catholic School

The concern is especially high because he was able to get into the St. Rose Catholic School near 31st and Michigan in Milwaukee not once, not twice -- but three times.

"The only answer I get is 'it's under control' -- but this guy keeps coming back," Shaneeka Kelly said.

Kelly says her son attends St. Rose Catholic School. She says the intruder came into her son's school last Wednesday, September 23rd, and again on Thursday.

"I made sure he knew what to do. If you encounter a stranger, go in the opposite direction," Kelly said.

Intruder at St. Rose Catholic School

On Friday, September 25th, a letter was sent home to parents by Messmer Catholic Schools, which St. Rose is a part of.

The letter indicates there was an intruder earlier in the week that stole a staff member's vehicle from the parking lot, and that the same person tried to enter the school a second time.

On Monday morning, September 28th, the intruder came in again -- this time, making it up to the third floor. As a precaution, children laid down in classrooms, lights were turned off, and classroom doors were locked.

"My two deans and I personally escorted him off the campus as police were arriving," Jim Piatt with Messmer Catholic Schools said.

Intruder at St. Rose Catholic School

Piatt says the intruder was able to enter the building with food delivery workers.

Security was already being beefed up at the school with a fence, new locks and a new security guard.

"We're grateful no one was jeopardized, but theft is a violation of people's space and rights and it shouldn't happen anywhere -- much less at a school," Piatt said.

School officials say there's good surveillance pictures of the man who entered the school.

Police are investigating, and they haven't released the surveillance photos at this time. Parents, however, are invited to come into the school's office if they'd like to take a look at the photos.

Intruder at St. Rose Catholic School