Principal reacts to airsoft pistol brought inside middle school: “utterly irresponsible”

A Northport Middle School (NMS) student who brought an airsoft orange-tipped pistol to school will be dealt with according to the district’s Code of Conduct and may be subject to legal repercussions, shared NMS Principal Tim Hoss in an email to families at approximately 10:55am today.

The incident occurred earlier in the day, Hoss said; Suffolk County Police were immediately contacted and the pistol taken from the student. 

“An initial investigation by school officials suggests that there was no intent to cause harm with the device, but was rather being ‘shown off’ by the individual,” Hoss wrote. “Thankfully, no students or staff were hurt during this situation.” 

According to airsoft retailer RedWolf, an airsoft pistol is “a highly realistic replica of a real pistol.” Though they resemble a traditional firearm, airsoft guns shoot non-lethal plastic pellets and “are sought after by recreational shooters, collectors and law enforcement training personnel.” Versions can be made of plastic, die-cast metal, aluminum or steel.

Federal law requires that all airsoft guns be installed with an orange tip that is at least 6mm long to distinguish the gun from a real firearm (though some state laws vary). 

“Regardless of the intent, bringing a device such as this is both dangerous and utterly irresponsible,” wrote Hoss. “We appreciate that a responsible reporter brought this to our attention immediately.” 

The Northport-East Northport school district’s Code of Conduct states that students found guilty of bringing a weapon onto school property will be subject to suspension from school for at least one calendar year. (The airsoft pistol is considered a weapon, “pursuant to the district’s Code of Conduct,” said district officials.)

According to the code, the student would have an opportunity for a hearing before being suspended, at which the superintendent of schools can modify the suspension on a case-by-case basis. In deciding whether or not to modify the penalty, the superintendent may consider the student’s age and grade, prior disciplinary record, other forms of discipline, input from parents/guardians and teachers, and other extenuating circumstances.  

District officials told the Journal today they would not be able to share disciplinary actions for specific instances of code violations due to privacy concerns.

“I want to emphasize the importance of speaking with your children about appropriate behavior and the very serious consequences of bringing any item that can be used as a weapon to school,” Hoss concluded. “I also want to reiterate that parents should ensure that any guns, including airsoft guns, should be securely stored to prevent students from gaining access to them.” The school will continue to work with its dedicated security team and the SCPD to review safety protocols, he added. 

When asked what support would be available for students after the incident, Principal Hoss said: “As a school community, supporting the social and emotional well-being of our students is a priority throughout the entire year. In any instance where students may be struggling, our mental health team including counselors, psychologists and social workers are available to help. We encourage any student or parent who is in need of support to reach out to these individuals or myself.”