A school district in Michigan has now prohibited students from carrying backpacks to school following an incident where a third grader brought a loaded firearm to the premises. This incident represents the fourth time a student was found with a firearm in the school within the current academic year. Interestingly, in three out of these four incidents, the firearms were found in the possession of elementary school students, which also includes the occurrence from the previous week.
According to ABC News:
“This is not a decision we’ve taken lightly and we know this poses a significant inconvenience for our families. I am more than frustrated that a decision like this is necessary, but we must put safety first,” Grand Rapids Public Schools Superintendent Leadriane Roby said in a statement.
The district said the policy will remain in effect “until further notice.”
“Here we are again, and I will just say that I am frustrated, I am sad and I am angry that this continues to happen,” Roby said at a press conference Wednesday.
Another student realized there was a gun at school when the 8-year-old dropped their backpack. When the student picked up the bag, they realized it was heavier than it should have been and reported it to a teacher, Larry Johnson, the district’s executive director of public safety and school security, told reporters at a press conference.
When guns are found on children at such a young age it is often the parents which authorities must look at. Parents need to ensure their children are going to school, and anywhere, without carrying dangerous weapons or other materials. We need to protect America’s youth and ensure children don’t come into possession of deadly materials. Some of these objects include guns, drugs, and pornography.
