Student who took bullet to Arlington Heights school won't be charged
A student who took a bullet to South Middle School in Arlington Heights will not face criminal charges.
Arlington Heights Elementary District 25 Superintendent Lori Bein sent a letter to parents Tuesday afternoon updating the circumstances surrounding a custodian's discovery of a bullet on the floor of the boys' locker room Friday night.
Classes were not canceled Monday and officials said the school was never in any danger.
After an initial notice was sent to parents Monday afternoon, the family of a student came forward and has fully cooperated with police and school administration, Bein said.
"The student had found the bullet while on a family vacation, and kept it with parent permission. Despite the parent's clear parameters and expectations involving this souvenir, the student made the choice to bring the bullet to school," Bein wrote. "The Arlington Heights Police Department and District 25 administration have collaboratively decided that there was no harm intended by this student and no other students participated in this event."
Bein indicated she could not discuss any disciplinary action the district may take, but noted that expectations and consequences are outlined in the district handbook. Based on school-administered discipline, the police department has decided not to pursue criminal charges, she wrote.
"The Arlington Heights Police Department is confident that the situation was handled appropriately and that, at no point, did anyone involved in the investigation believe that anyone's safety was in jeopardy," Bein wrote.
Several parents have asked why the district did not alert them over the weekend or before students returned to school Monday.
"Based on my personal reflection of conversations and feedback from parents, I have decided that, for this particular situation, I should have sent a notice over the weekend," Bein wrote. "Partnering with parents is important to me and I am dedicated to demonstrating that with you in the future as the situation permits."
Parents with additional questions can contact Bein or attend a session at South at 5:30 p.m. Monday, when she, Principal Piper Boston and a police officer will be available.