6/22 letter: Conduct Concern/Incident at OHS
June 22, 2022Dear OCSD staff, families and community,
I am writing this evening regarding an alleged event that was reported to the district in late May. This incident involved an Orbeez Gel Ball Blaster. This blaster, when utilized, is able to project small gel balls and/or water beads.
While this blaster is considered a toy by some, it has been considered to be a weapon by others and is a violation of the district’s Code of Conduct.
What information was reported to the district?
Specifically, it was reported to the district that several community members may have used a blaster to project small gel balls and/or water beads while on the premises in a car at Oswego High School and at various locations throughout the community.
How did the district respond to this report?
Upon receiving this report, the district immediately shared this information with authorities who investigated this matter and a string of similar incidents throughout the community.
What information have authorities learned?
Late this afternoon it was announced through local media that the Oswego County Sheriff’s Department arrested and charged a 19-year-old former student along with a current OCSD student related to these incidents.
Due to privacy laws and the fact that there is an ongoing investigation into this matter, the district is unable to comment further at this time, but I wanted to address any rumors that may be circulating regarding this situation for transparency’s sake.
What other information should parents and/or guardians know?
Please be advised, when an incident such as this one occurs, the district will continue to involve local authorities and utilize its Code of Conduct as we responding to these matters. Accordingly, the district is requesting that parents talk to their children about this matter and reinforce with them that these types of items should not be brought to school at any time as they present a safety concern and are in violation of the district Code of Conduct.
As always, safety will continue to be our number one goal and ensuring our students and staff have secure, welcoming learning spaces is paramount to us.
The district thanks our School Resource Officer team and Oswego County Sheriff’s Department for all they do to help keep our students and staff safe.
Yours in Education,
Dr. Mathis Calvin III
OCSD Superintendent
