A Lansing mother is demanding answers after her 11-year-old son was expelled from school for what she believes was an act of courage.
Savitra McClurkin says her seventh-grade son, a student at Dwight Rich School of the Arts, is being punished for disarming a classmate who brought a gun to school.
According to McClurkin, her son took the weapon, disassembled it using knowledge he gained from hunting, and threw away the bullets. But because he did not immediately report the incident to an adult, the Lansing School District determined expulsion was necessary.
“I’m frustrated. I’m at my wits end. I don’t know what to do,” McClurkin told WILX. “He’s 11 years old. Seventh grade. Never been in trouble before.”
She explained that her son acted out of fear, believing he was protecting his classmates in the moment. “It’s devastating because he’s a bright kid and all he wants to do is be a kid,” she said.
McClurkin, who has struggled to get in touch with district officials, brought her concerns directly to the Lansing School Board at its Thursday night meeting, urging them to reconsider the decision.
In a statement to local news outlet WLNS, the Lansing School District stood by the expulsion, citing state law.
“In May 2025, a serious incident involving a firearm occurred at Dwight Rich Middle School. After a thorough investigation, and in accordance with Michigan law regarding dangerous weapons on school property, the Lansing School District determined that expulsion was necessary,” the statement read.
The district emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly, but insisted that Michigan law provides “very clear direction” in cases involving weapons on school grounds. The investigation, which included statements and video evidence, “left no ambiguity and required this outcome,” the district said.
While officials argue they must prioritize safety, McClurkin believes her son is being unfairly punished for acting in good faith.
The incident raises larger questions about zero-tolerance policies, student decision-making in high-stress moments, and whether Michigan’s strict expulsion laws leave enough room for context and intent.
For now, McClurkin is fighting to get her son back into school, determined to ensure that one decision doesn’t derail his future.
