On Friday, January 27, 2023, students and staff at both Holyoke Middle School and Peck School were sheltered in place following a report that a HMS student may have brought a weapon to school. Holyoke Police searched student bags, lockers, and a classroom. They found no evidence of weapons during their search.
The shelter in place restriction at Holyoke Middle School was called at 10:34 a.m. and lifted at 11:03 a.m. Students at Peck School also sheltered in place from 10:36 to 10:55 a.m., since both schools are housed in the same building, but police focused their search at Holyoke Middle.
“Students and staff are to be commended for doing everything right this morning,” said Superintendent Anthony Soto. “Holyoke Middle School students reported their concerns to staff, who immediately notified school administrators. Administrators then immediately called for a shelter in place and contacted Holyoke Police.”
Under a “shelter in place” order, students and staff remain in their present location, but normal school functions such as teaching and learning continue. Only public safety officials are permitted to enter or exit the school for the duration.