WARNER ROBINS -- Ten-year-old Kit Colburn, whose decision to walk off school grounds May 8 resulted in a 51-hour massive search for him, has apologized to his school in writing, with the help of his father.

The fifth-grader may deliver the apology over Russell Elementary School’s public announcement system, or it may be distributed to students, principal Keith Lauritsen said. Also, the boy may make an apology at a Warner Robins City Council meeting, his father, Ken Colburn, said.

Meanwhile, Kit has not been in school since the incident. The decision was made by school officials that he would not return until next year when he goes to middle school, Ken Colburn said. The last day of school is Friday.

In Kit’s apology, shared with The Telegraph by his father, Kit admits what he did was wrong.

“I am very sorry I made that choice and want all my fellow students to know it was wrong,” Kit states.

Ken Colburn said he drafted the apology after he and his son talked about what it should say. The apology also states that Kit loves his teacher and knows she cares for him.

“That is why she takes the time to write notes to my dad that need to be signed then brought home,” the apology states.

Kit had been sent to the principal’s office to find out why he had not had a form signed but decided to leave the grounds of Russell Elementary instead. He was reported missing about three hours later when it was realized he never made it to the principal’s office. His father said he believes Kit was afraid of getting in trouble.

“I also know that the principal is here to help us -- not to be mean to me,” Kit stated in the apology.

He also apologized for dodging police cars, officers and other public safety officials and scores of volunteers who searched for him. The boy was found May 10 sleeping under some bushes next to a vacant home off Kimberly Road.

Ken Colburn said his son actually wanted to return to school May 8, so he could ride the bus back home. But he was scared when he saw the sheriff’s patrol cars parked outside the school.

“So I want you all to know I’m sorry for what I did,” Kit continued in the apology. “I hope you can learn from my mistake so you don’t have to cause pain that I caused to my friends and family and to some of you. I will never do anything like that again.”

Ken Colburn said he believes Kit did not understand the series of events that would be triggered by his actions. But he does understand the need to take responsibility.

When considering Kit’s case, the principal said his heart was to do what is best for Kit as well as what’s best for the other students.

“I think Kit learned a valuable lesson,” Lauritsen said.

To contact writer Becky Purser, call 256-9559.