WAYNESBORO, VA (Rocktown Now) — An investigation is underway after a knife was found in the desk of a 9-year-old at Berkeley Glenn Elementary School on Wednesday.

Waynesboro Public School officials say a student reported to an instructional assistant that another student had a knife in his desk. The instructional assistant immediately notified the classroom teacher, and the knife was secured. The student was removed from the classroom and escorted to the school office.

Officials say a Waynesboro Police Department School Resource Officer responded immediately and confirmed that the knife had a 3½-inch blade. A follow-up criminal investigation is underway to determine whether criminal charges are appropriate.

Following a threat assessment and review of the incident, it was determined that students and staff were not in danger.

Waynesboro Public Schools said in a release they commend the student who reported the concern and the staff members who responded promptly and appropriately.

“Our students are regularly reminded that if they see or hear something concerning, they should immediately report it to a trusted adult. Today’s incident reinforces the importance of students following that guidance and taking concerns about school safety seriously.”

Waynesboro Public Schools noted they also appreciate its strong partnership with the Waynesboro Police Department and the department’s continued support of their schools and that the immediate assistance of the School Resource Officer helped ensure the situation was addressed quickly and appropriately.

“The safety of our students and staff remains a top priority for Waynesboro Public Schools. Maintaining safe schools is a shared responsibility, and we are asking parents and guardians to help us by checking their children’s bookbags every day before they leave for school. Taking a few moments each day to know what your child is bringing to school can help prevent prohibited or potentially dangerous items from entering our buildings,” officials continued. “We appreciate the actions of our students, staff, administrators, families, and law enforcement partners as we work together to maintain safe and supportive learning environments for all students.”