Valerie Burd back teaching at Marinette High School

MARINETTE, Wis. - Valerie Burd, the teacher whose classroom was held hostage by a student a week ago, is back teaching at Marinette High School.

Principal Corry Lambie says Burd returned to school Monday for a half day of work.

Law enforcement is praising Burd for her heroic actions during the standoff. She was in contact with police while 15-year-old Sam Hengel held about two dozen classmates and herself hostage.

School officials and students say she also helped to keep the conversation going with Hengel.

Burd has 10 years of experience in the district.