Student Brought Knife to North Kingstown Elementary School, According to District

Student Brought Knife to North Kingstown Elementary School, According to District

An elementary school student reportedly brought a knife to school in North Kingstown on Monday, according to the interim superintendent. 

It marks the latest in students bringing knives to schools in Rhode Island, after a principal was stabbed last week in Providence -- and then two students were arrested for possessing knives at a school in the city the following day. 

 

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Letter to Families:

The following was sent by the interim superintendent to parent in an email  -- a copy was obtained by GoLocal on Monday:

In March, the former superintendent for the district resigned. The district has been rocked by allegations of naked ‘fat tests’ being conducted by former boys’ basketball coach Aaron Thomas dating back to 2018. 

Dear Families,

Today, a Quidnessett elementary student brought a knife to school.  School personnel confiscated the knife at the very start of the school day and steps were taken in accordance with state law and school policies.  Specifically, police were called, a risk assessment was done to determine if the child is a danger to his/herself and others, and a parent was called. 

At this time, there is no indication that there was an intention to cause harm, however, we take all situations involving weapons seriously.  

Once the risk assessment is complete, consequences for this student will be applied and additional measures, including potential counseling and other appropriate actions, will be undertaken. 

While we cannot share specific details, we provide whatever information can be made public in an effort to build confidence in our schools and keep you abreast of situations.

Unless our investigations reveal additional information you need to know, this will be the only email sent regarding this incident. 

Rest assured, we will provide additional information if needed. 

Also, our District Emergency Operations Team, which meets monthly, will meet today with police and fire representatives and will discuss this incident and the district’s response for the purpose of continually reflecting on and improving our efforts to make our schools safe and secure for both staff and students.

Sincerely,

Judy Paolucci, Interim Superintendent