HEATH, Ohio (AP) -- Police say a psychiatric patient considered dangerous has escaped an Ohio nursing home, prompting authorities to cancel classes in the surrounding school district.

The Heath police department says 53-year-old John Stroud was discovered missing from a secure ward at the Heath Nursing & Convalescent Home shortly after 5 a.m. Thursday. A window in his room was broken out.

Police say Stroud has a history of violence.

Heath schools Superintendent Tom Forman says the four-school district was notified of the escape around 7 a.m. and closed schools as a safety precaution.

An elementary school in the neighboring Newark district was on a two-hour delay.

Police say Stroud has no known contacts in the area.