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An Albert Einstein High School student was investigated by police for displaying a weapon during an online class on April 3.
The incident was confirmed by Einstein Principal Christine Handy who said in an email to the school community that the student was immediately reported to Montgomery County Police Department and Montgomery County Public Schools Safety and Security.
“They have investigated the incident and determined there is no imminent threat to school or student safety,” Handy said.
Officer Rick Goodale, a spokesperson for MCPD, said charges weren’t filed against the student because a threat was not made towards others. According to Goodale, investigators watched the class footage of the student—a 17 year-old male—and say he was sitting quietly on camera, fiddling with the gun, but he was not pointing it at the camera or aiming it at anyone.
Goodale said the gun was purchased legally by the boy’s family and, for reasons unknown, the boy had gotten a hold of the gun. Police had a conversation about the incident with the boy and his family and determined there was not a threat, Goodale said.
Handy said there will be consequences for the student who displayed the weapon.
“As we launch online learning for our 1800 Albert Einstein students, their safety and security will continue to be our top priority. Student behavior that contributes to an unsafe learning environment, whether in-person or online, will not be tolerated,” Handy said.
It’s unclear who reported the incident to police—the teacher, a student, or a parent.
The incident comes after the FBI has raised concerns about the security of online classes. There have been several reports of “Zoombombing” happening around the country during online classes that use the video software “Zoom.” Derek Turner, an MCPS spokesperson, confirmed that teachers and students are using this platform, but it is a closed system.
According to Turner, all students and faculty can enter Zoom rooms using MCPS secure logins. After students login, there’s a waiting room where teachers have to confirm students can enter the online “classroom.”
Full Email from Albert Einstein Principal
Good Evening Albert Einstein HS Families,
I apologize for this late message but felt that it was important to send. The purpose of this message is to make you aware of an extremely serious incident that occurred during an online class today, April 3, 2020. While students were engaged in learning, a student held up a weapon. This student’s behavior and a video was shared with school administration this evening. In response, the Montgomery County Police Department and Montgomery County Public Schools Safety and Security were immediately contacted. They have investigated the incident and determined there is no imminent threat to school or student safety.
I am deeply disappointed by this behavior. Consequences will be administered in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. As we launch online learning for our 1800 Albert Einstein students, their safety and security will continue to be our top priority. Student behavior that contributes to an unsafe learning environment, whether in-person or online, will not be tolerated.
Thank you for your support and partnership to ensure the continuity of learning experience at Albert Einstein High School is positive for every student.
Dr. Handy, Principal
