BALTIMORE (WBFF) — Nearly a month after a 15-year-old was arrested with a loaded handgun at Joppatowne High School, parents and students still don’t know whether the student will return to class.
Harford County Public Schools says state and federal student privacy laws prevent it from discussing discipline or placement decisions for individual students. The district did not answer questions about whether the student has returned to Joppatowne or another school.
The gun was discovered Sept. 17, when a weapons detection system at the school entrance alerted staff during student arrival. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office said the handgun was loaded.
Del. Mike Griffith, a Republican who represents parts of Harford County, said he has heard from parents worried the student could return to the classroom. Griffith said he believes the student should be placed in an alternative or online education program.
ALSO READ | Student arrested after loaded gun recovered at Woodlawn High School
“First and foremost, we got to be looking out for all the students and parents and faculty at the school,” Griffith said. “There needs to be some kind of alternative or online school.”
Griffith said the student should still receive an education and rehabilitation services. He also said he does not know what the student’s motive was.
“We don’t know the motive and the public doesn’t know the motive, but it can’t be good,” Griffith said. “The students should not be back in school.”
Two years ago, 15-year-old Warren Grant was fatally shot inside a Joppatowne High School bathroom. Jaylen Prince, who was 16 at the time, was found guilty of Grant’s murder and sentenced to life in prison.
“We’re already dealing with a school that’s traumatized by student violence,” Griffith said.
The school later implemented a weapons detection system. Griffith said the system helped prevent the gun from getting farther into the building.
ALSO READ | State reveals convicted teen’s violent school record before, after Joppatowne High murder
“So fortunately for everybody, we’re talking about a crime of weapon possession, but we don’t know if that kid was ever going to use it,” he said.
Griffith said he hopes district leaders find an alternative placement that addresses the needs of the student and the school community.
“I’m hopeful that the school’s leadership and the Harford County Public School leadership will make the right decision and do the right thing by everyone involved and find an alternative solution for this child,” he said.
Follow Political Reporter Mikenzie Frost on X and Facebook. Send tips to mbfrost@sbgtv.com.
Local Story
