LAKEVIEW, Mich. (WZZM) -- The superintendent of Lakeview Community Schools sent a letter home to parents Tuesday after a high school student brought a gun to school.
The incident happened last week and several students were aware, but no one alerted an adult. Superintendent Kyle Hamlin says the student intended harming him or herself.
Hamlin declined to provide details about the student, other than to say the student was an underclassman.
"It was mentioned by several of the students involved that the offender shared that they had thought of harming themself only," Hamlin told The Greenville Daily News.
Below is Hamlin's letter:
Dear Families:
As a partner in your child's education and well-being, I would like to make you aware of an incident that occurred on Friday, March 21, 2014. Rumors travel very quickly, so I wanted to ensure that accurate information reached our families in a timely manner.
On Friday, March 21, 2014, following dismissal, Mr. (Gary) Jensen (the high school principal) was alerted to a possible weapons issue at Lakeview High School involving a hand gun. District officials immediately notified law enforcement of the weapon concern. After investigating, it was discovered that a high school student was in possession of a hand gun during the school day. District officials continue to work with local law enforcement, consult legal guidance, and will strictly discipline involved students in accordance with the law and LCS board policy.
The presence of a weapon in school understandably brings about fear. However, it is important to note that we are confident there was no imminent danger or threats for any student in our district (other than the perpetrator). Yet another concern to district officials is that several students were aware that there was a weapon in the building and did not alert an adult. Recent events involving school violence, and the repeated school emergency drills we practice, highlight the importance in reporting all dangerous and suspicious activity to help avoid potential tragedy. We urge all of our families to support our staff in reinforcing the importance of reporting any situation that appears to be dangerous or out of the norm.
As you communicate with your child, please know that Lakeview Community Schools is a safe place for your student. I assure you that the Lakeview administrative team, our school resource officer, faculty and staff are committed to maintaining a school environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. Please feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or concerns you want to share.
Sincerely,
Kyle Hamlin, superintendent
Lakeview Community Schools
