Three Milpitas Schools Asked to “Shelter in Place” to Ensure Student Safety

Working in partnership with parents to provide open communication and ensure the safety of all students, I wanted to inform you of an event that occurred today, Thursday, October 26. We received a report at approximately 12:15 p.m. that a ninth grade student brought a gun to Milpitas High School today. Administrators took immediate action and called the Milpitas Police Department, which responded promptly to lock down the campuses at Milpitas High School as well as neighboring Pomeroy Elementary and Russell Middle School.

Police took the student suspect into custody at MHS, and Pomeroy and Russell were given an “all clear” by 12:30 p.m. Soon thereafter, police lifted the “shelter in place” order at all three schools. After taking the freshman into custody at MHS, they conducted a search of the campus to be sure there were no other weapons on campus, and that there were no other students involved. It is now confirmed the student was indeed acting alone, there was only one weapon, and the suspect is now with authorities at the police station. As of 1:00 p.m., students were proceeding to lunch and administrators sent separate messages to parents of the three schools.

At Russell Middle School, Principal Damon James explained in his memo to parents that being asked to “shelter in place” meant they were to shut their doors and have all students remain in the classrooms with the lights out. Very soon, staff and students were informed that everything was handled and that they were safe on campus. Students who were in need of anxiety support were sent to the Learning Center, where counselors were allowing them to talk out their feelings.

​As a precautionary measure, the Milpitas Police Department did order a secondary lockdown of the schools. After their investigation, they allowed us to release the lockdown. The situation was contained quickly because of cooperation within the community. It is important for students to inform adults when they see or hear of weapons on campus, and that’s exactly what transpired. We are grateful that police and administration were able to work together to quickly ensure the safety of all our students.

​As Superintendent, there is nothing more important than the safety of our students and team members. You have my assurances that we are a safe school environment, and that school is back to normal. If anyone has any questions or concerns, feel free to contact my office to schedule an appointment.

Cheryl Jordan
Superintendent of Milpitas Unified School District

Update: ​Click here for the Press Release from Milpitas Police Department