Kennedy Community School Student Faces Expulsion After Firearm Discovered in Locker

(KNSI) — A student at Kennedy Community School will be expelled after a gun was found in their locker.

According to officials from St. Cloud Area School District 742, the school’s principal was responding to an unrelated injury Friday when the discovery was made. The injury was not connected to any concerns about a weapon. The gun was unloaded, and no ammunition was found on the student or in the locker. At no point were there any threats directed at the building or anyone inside.

Members of the St. Joseph Police Department were already in the building conducting their usual safety patrols and were able to respond immediately. The student was taken into custody, and school officials credit law enforcement and administration’s immediate and swift response for allowing the school day to continue as usual.

A statement from the district emailed to KNSI News says, “Specific information regarding a student disciplinary action is private educational data under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. However, as authorized by the Board of Education, the Code of Conduct stipulates that possession of a weapon on school grounds results in expulsion. This strict policy reflects our commitment to maintaining a safe space for our students and staff.”

Officials say the incident will be reviewed at the next meeting of an advisory group of police, emergency responders, district and building administrators. The group works closely on safety protocols and practices and will focus on identifying and reviewing any additional security measures that may need addressing. A meeting is also set for tonight for Kennedy families and staff.

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