By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
A shelter-in-place order was issued for Plainwell High School on Wednesday, April 2.
The order followed the discovery of photographs depicting a PHS students with what appeared to be a handgun and was issued “out of an abundance of caution.” School staff also contacted the Plainwell Department of Public Safety for assistance.
Officers from the DPS arrived within minutes and conducted a search of the student in question as well as his belongings. The officers confirmed that no weapons were present.
The photos were determined to have been taken off school property at an address in Kalamazoo County. It was also determined that the gun shown in the photographs was a BB gun.
Upon the recommendation of the Plainwell Department of Public Safety, the shelter-in-place order was lifted, and normal school operations were resumed.
Plainwell Community Schools sent information about the incident to parents and caregivers of high school students via text and/or phone call shortly after 10 a.m.
Plainwell director of Public Safety Kevin Callahan praised the quick actions taken by Plainwell High School staff members after they became aware of the photographs.
“We take the safety and security of our schools extremely seriously,” Callahan said. “We are grateful for the quick notification and professionalism of the Plainwell Public Schools Administration and School Safety Personnel.
“We work together on a daily basis in order to ensure the safety of students and staff.”
According to Callahan, the case has been referred to Kalamazoo County authorities for further follow-up and investigation.
Callahan also issued a reminder to students, parents and educators of the importance of continuing to prioritize safety through the OK2SAY program.
“The OK2SAY program stands as a vital resource for preventing harm and fostering secure learning environments,” Callahan said.
Launched in 2014 by the Michigan State Police (MSP), OK2SAY is a confidential reporting system designed to empower students, parents, school staff and community members to report potential threats or harmful behaviors affecting Michigan’s schools.
The program covers a wide range of issues, including bullying, threats, substance abuse, mental health crises, and potential violence.
How to Use OK2SAY:
- Call: 8-555-OK2SAY (855-565-2729)
- Text: 652729 (OK2SAY)
- Email: OK2SAY@mi.gov
- Online: www.ok2say.com
- Mobile App: Download “OK2SAY” from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of OK2SAY, protected under Michigan’s Student Safety Act (Public Act 183 of 2013). Whether it’s a student reporting a peer in distress or a parent flagging a potential threat, tipsters can speak up without fear of retaliation.
