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Press Release: Pownal Elementary School
Keeping our schools safe is a team effort, and today, students and staff at Pownal Elementary did exactly what they should in a dangerous situation. A student brought an unloaded 9mm handgun and 67 rounds of ammunition to school and sent a message about it on social media. The students who saw the message immediately told their teachers, who followed school safety procedures and got help right away. Their quick thinking helped stop a bad situation before anyone got hurt.
School safety officials and law enforcement responded fast. The student was safely removed from class, and a gun and ammunition were located and taken from his backpack. A deputy from the Bennington County Sheriff’s Office took over the investigation, and authorities are making sure there is no further danger to the school. Thanks to the students who spoke up and the staff who acted quickly, no one was harmed, and the situation was handled before it could escalate.
This is a reminder that if you see something concerning, say something. The students who reported this situation helped protect their school and classmates. If you ever hear or see something that doesn’t seem right-whether online or in person-tell a teacher, school staff member, or trusted adult. Speaking up can save lives.
Sheriff James A. Gulley, Jr., MPA
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