VIDEO: Missing Alabama Teacher Found Safe

FAYETTE, Ala. (WCBI)-Kelcey Hale has been a teacher here at Fayette County High School for the past six years.

He was first reported missing by the schools principal, Jeremy Madden, after Hale did not show up for the first day of classes

“When he didn’t report on the first day of school you know we were really concerned and we were concerned enough to alert the authorities.” said Madden.

Madden says this is unlike Hale’s behavior, especially because he is a newly wed who has only been married for 7 weeks.

“I’ve never seen the man miss more than 5 days a whole year and usually that was when he was preaching a funeral or he was working at the polls, he would usually help with the elections and he just never missed work…” said Madden.

Thanks to local law enforcement, the community and school officials here at Fayette County High school, Kelcey Hale the teacher that’s been missing for over a week has been safe and sound… something that could’ve ended tragically, luckily had a happy ending

“I’m sitting at home the other night and I’ve got one in the 9th grade and he asked me about Mr. Hale and this was before really the story broke and I said ‘how do you know Mr. Hale?’ and he said ‘well he taught me computers at the elementary school so he’s had an effect on everybody the last ten or twelve years in our school system and it’s been a really big ordeal.” said superintendent Burkhalter.

As of now, they’re just happy Hale has been reported safe.

“I’m glad he’s been found safe and sound.” said Burkhalter.

“I’m glad Mr. Hale is okay, I’m glad nothing is wrong with him and I’m glad he’s safe and healthy, first of all that’s the first thing I’ve thought of that this doesn’t end tragically and he’s okay today.” said Madden.

Madden and Burkhalter say that they hope to hear from Hale soon and that if he’s watching, to remember that the school and community are here for him…

“Like I said, if he’s watching this I’m just happy that he’s alive and I’m happy he’s doing well and uh just give us a call, get in touch with us.” said Burkhalter.

“We wish him the very best and if he needs anything, any support you know the school is here to provide that, it’s one of our duties here. If he needs anything, if he’s listening to this, you know give us a call, we’d love to support him and be there for him.” said Madden.