Student Caught With A Knife At Don Estridge Middle School Will Be Disciplined Per County’s Zero Tolerance Policy

BOCA RATON, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2022) — Contrary to rumors being propelled by a local blogger, a student did not bring a gun to Don Estridge Middle School.

Nothing spreads a rumor faster than fear and this is a good example of that.

A rumor which originated on social media has since been propelled by a local blogger, known for dramatizing and distorting the truth, which has made parents in Boca Raton even more nervous.

The regurgitated rumor making its rounds on social media is not true, according to the School District of Palm Beach County.

A student was found with a knife in his possession at Don Estridge Middle School in Boca Raton on Monday, August 22nd, 2022. According to the School District, the student is being disciplined per the Zero Tolerance Policy which is in place for any infraction that poses a threat to the safety of anyone in the school.

While other organizations may think it’s acceptable to share a screenshot of a post on social media allegedly made by a pre-teen, we think it’s reprehensible. Claudia Shea, Director of Communications with the School District of Palm Beach County, tells Boca Post that there was never a gun. The student has not been identified at this time.

The principal of Don Estridge Middle School sent the following message out yesterday:

Good afternoon Don Estridge parents and guardians, this is Principal Josh Davidow,

This afternoon, a knife was safely removed from the backpack of a student.

The possession of a knife on campus, regardless of the reasoning, is a serious offense and strict discipline will proceed, as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

The School District is committed to ensuring a safe learning and working environment for all students and staff, and disciplinary action may be taken against any student or individual who violates the District’s Zero Tolerance Policy for any infraction that poses a threat to school safety.

Parents, I recommend an occasional check of your student’s backpack before they leave in the morning, and encourage the download of the SaferWatch app to report tips and suspicious activity, available in the Apple App and Google Play Stores.

I want to additionally acknowledge in this case that a student saw something, and found a trusted adult.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, you can contact the school at 561-989-7800. Thank you for your continued support of Don Estridge.

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