Superintendent says additional security measures to be implemented after student takes airsoft gun on bus

QUINCY — A Baldwin Elementary School student who had an unloaded airsoft gun on a school bus Friday afternoon faces disciplinary action, and Superintendent Todd Pettit said he will be working with the Quincy Public Schools’ security department to implement additional security measures in all public schools beginning Monday.

In a press release, Pettit said the student was removed from the bus and made no threats.

“We do not believe anyone was in danger,” Pettit said. “We are taking this matter very seriously, and disciplinary actions will be taken in accordance with state law and our school code.”

Airsoft guns are realistic-looking replica/toy guns that imitate real firearms and shoot small round plastic BBs using air pressure.

Pettit said the incident was resolved quickly and safely because students reported the airsoft gun to school personnel. District administrators contacted police, and the student was removed from the bus.

Pettit said he believed it was important to inform families of all Quincy Public Schools’ students about the incident to be “honest and transparent” with parents. He suggested parents to talk to their children about bringing inappropriate items to school and “the potential disciplinary action that could result.”

“The safety and security of our students and staff is a top priority,” Pettit said. “When speaking to your child or children, please remind them if they see something, say something.”