Smithfield High weapons-detection incident prompts calls for expanded security and countywide review

A Smithfield High School student attempted to enter the building with a loaded handgun on the morning of June 8, a public commenter told the Isle of Wight County School Board on June 12, prompting renewed calls to expand screening and safety training.

Dolores Darden, who identified herself as the grandmother of the teacher who intervened, described a morning incident in which a teacher discovered the gun during the school’s weapons-detection process and was briefly confronted by the student while holding the backpack. She praised the metal detectors and staff response and urged the board to increase staffing or security presence, extend operating hours for detectors, and offer active-shooter and security training for all staff.

"A student tried to enter Smithfield High School with a loaded gun," Darden said during public comment, urging the board to "please look at your budget, review your priorities again, and put plans in place to improve the safety and security of our schools." She also asked that detectors be used beyond morning entry and be installed at middle schools that funnel students to the high school.

Board members and administrators described the detector as having worked as designed, and student liaisons and staff confirmed the incident led to criminal charges, with the student said to be charged with a Class 6 felony. Superintendent Dr. David Kramer and Deputy Superintendent Dr. Coleman said they plan to convene county partners to discuss additional safety and security investments and timelines. Operations staff reported a short lead-time on additional weapons-detection units and said installations could occur in time for the start of school if ordered promptly.

Board discussion also touched on training and resource allocation. The board asked staff to gather more information on gaps and next steps and signaled intent to discuss security with county officials to align planning and funding.

Context and details - The incident occurred June 8 and was detected by the district’s weapons-detection system. Teachers intervened and detained the student while staff alerted administrators and law enforcement. - A public commenter asked the board to prioritize security in the budget, to consider using trained security personnel rather than teachers for detector duties, to offer active-shooter training for all staff, and to operate detectors beyond the morning entry period. - School officials said the district has additional funding and procurement plans; operations staff stated that additional weapons-detection units have roughly a two-week lead time and can be ordered for summer installation. - Superintendent Kramer said he will coordinate a meeting with county officials to review and shore up safety measures across the county.

What’s next - Staff will assemble a multi-stakeholder review of safety gaps and possible steps, and report back to the board. Procurement and installation timelines will be pursued to ensure detectors are in place ahead of the next school year where feasible.

This article is based on public comment from the June 12 meeting and public staff presentations recorded in the meeting transcript and minutes.