hairbeaner@... asked this question on 2/24/2000:
My son attends middle school in 6th grade. A boy threatened to bring a gun to school and shoot my son. I have since found out that there have been 6 such threats in his school this year alone. Am I the only one who thinks this is a lot? I am being told by the principal and the police that this is something kids this age do.
Poe gave this response on 3/4/2000:
Kids that age do not specifically say "I'm going to bring a gun and shoot you." It sounds as though these threats are not being taken seriously and in the wake of all that has happened, they should. However, you do have some options: You could again speak to the principal, and casually mention if he/she does not seem inclined to want to help, that you will be speaking with an attorney/seeking legal help because the school is failing to provide for the safety of your child, and by not doing anything is perpetuating a hostile environment for your child. This may snap their heads up, if for no other reason than they don't want the media attention and/or possible law suit. If he/she seems unimpressed, relay the same to the school board. Somebody will take notice. You can also file charges against the child in juvenile court. You can also report the child to your local Human Services agency, who will make an investigation into the child's homelife and behavior. You can also seek to file a complaint against the police dept. Most states have laws against simple assault/verbal threatening of bodily harm, and in some cases civil suits have been filed when police have ignored a problem that resulted in harm, but I hope it doesn't come to that. Lastly, you can also contact your local media to inform them that your school does not take the threat of guns seriously, relaying your situation. In light of all that has happened, I don't know of any reporter who wouldn't jump on it, especially as it seems to be an ongoing ignored problem in your son's school. Scream loud enough and you will be heard!! Good luck!!
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