Yorkville Freshman Academy principal addressed maintaining a safe learning environment after a student was arrested Tuesday for allegedly bringing a loaded handgun to school in a backpack. “Our focus remains on providing a safe, supportive, and reassuring learning environment for everyone,” Principal David Travis said in a memo to families.No one was injured in the incident as the 14-year-old student who had the gun was kept in a contained location until law enforcement could intervene, according to Yorville police.The incident prompted a school lockdown Tuesday afternoon.(file photo) David Travis, principal for Yorkville High School, speaks during a school board meeting at Yorkville High School on Game Farm Road in Yorkville. (Katie Finlon)Travis said the school followed safety protocols.“Through the prompt actions of students, staff, school administration and law enforcement, the threat was identified and contained,” he said.Travis said their “composure and responsiveness helped protect our school community today.”Yorkville police said this was an isolated incident with the one student, and they have no evidence of other students being involved or any specific threats directed at other students.The student was transported to the Kane County Juvenile Justice Center and charged with several offenses, including unlawful possession of a weapon and six counts of aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon, according to a news release from the Yorkville Police Department.The student also is charged with possession of a stolen firearm and one count of obstructing a peace officer, police said.Yorkville police said their investigation remains ongoing and additional charges may be filed if more evidence indicates further violations.The mental health of students is important following such situations, Travis said in the memo to families, and encouraged parents to talk with their kids about the incident.“Ask how they are feeling, listen to their experience and provide reassurance,” Travis said in the statement.Crisis Support Teams with trained counselors and mental health professionals will be offering services to students in both the Freshman Academy and the Yorkville High School main campus, he said.The school’s priority is ensuring all students and staff feel safe and supported, but building a sense of normalcy will take some time, Travis said.“Our greatest strength has always been our community and the way we care for one another, particularly during challenging moments,” Travis said.Travis said the school will continue to work closely with the Yorkville Police Department, the campus safety officers, and School District 115’s safety team, made up of district administrators, local first responders, and emergency management partners, to maintain a visible presence on campus.Travis said the school will continue emphasizing the practice of “see something, say something” with its students.
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