A mother is feeling overwhelmed after her son was expelled from school for “taking a gun from a classmate.”
Savitra McClurkin expressed that her 11-year-old son was removed from the school following an incident in May at Dwight Rich School of the Arts in Michigan, where a classmate brought a firearm onto campus.
During the incident, a 12-year-old student, whose identity remains confidential, was apprehended after a disassembled gun was discovered on the school grounds.
According to McClurkin, her son noticed his peer with the weapon and, utilizing his hunting experience, managed to disarm and dismantle it, discarding the bullets.
Despite some labeling his actions as heroic, the school expelled the boy once his involvement became known, leaving his mother in disbelief.
She shared with WILX: “They are setting my child up for failure. They’re setting him up to being a statistic, and I’ve been doing everything in my will and my power to keep him from that.”
“It’s devastating because he’s a bright kid and all he wants to do is be a kid,” she added.
McClurkin further explained her son’s reluctance to involve himself or expose the student who brought the weapon but still ensured it was safe.
In response, a GoFundMe page has been launched to support McClurkin and her son as they navigate his educational future.
The fundraiser noted: “Instead of being recognized as a hero, [he] is now being treated like a criminal. He has been expelled and barred from all school platforms, despite being an A/B student, a respectful young man, and an athlete who has been playing sports since he was 6 years old.”
It continued: “On what could have been a tragic and devastating day … [he] acted out of courage and compassion.”
In a statement to PEOPLE, the school addressed the situation: “In May 2025, a serious incident involving a firearm occurred at Dwight Rich Middle School. After a thorough investigation, and in accordance with Michigan law regarding dangerous weapons on school property, the Lansing School District determined that expulsion was necessary.”
The school highlighted, “Expulsion is never a decision the district takes lightly. It is always considered a last resort,” adding that Michigan law provides clear guidance in cases involving dangerous weapons.
The statement elaborated that the investigation—supported by statements and video evidence—left no room for doubt, necessitating the expulsion.
The school district emphasized, “The Lansing School District has both a legal and moral responsibility to ensure the safety of all students and staff. While this decision is difficult, our priority remains creating and maintaining a secure environment where learning can take place without fear. Upholding these standards is essential to protecting our school community.”