On August 18, 2025, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) reported the confiscation of a gun on the first day of the new school year at Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, located on the Near West Side. Principal Rickey Harris sent a letter to the school community informing them of the incident, which occurred as students returned for classes. The gun was recovered by school security personnel, though specific details about the circumstances or the individual involved were not disclosed in the initial report. This action aligns with CPS protocols, which include strict safety measures and zero-tolerance policies for weapons on school grounds. The incident prompted an immediate response from school officials, who notified the Chicago Police Department and initiated an investigation to determine how the weapon entered the premises. Enrollment at Whitney Young, a highly ranked magnet school, stands at approximately 2,100 students, with a diverse student body known for academic excellence. The confiscation follows a broader context of safety enhancements across CPS, which serves over 320,000 students citywide and employs more than 21,000 teachers. Earlier this week, CPS also held public budget hearings to address a proposed $9 billion budget, reflecting ongoing efforts to balance educational funding with security measures. No injuries were reported, and the school continued operations with additional security oversight for the remainder of the day.
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