Mom demands justice after she says 11-year-old son was expelled after dismantling classmate’s loaded gun at school

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Savitra McClurkin demands accountability after she says school officials expelled her 11‑year‑old son for disarming a classmate who allegedly brought a loaded gun to school.

She said Dwight Rich School of the Arts expelled her son, Sakir Everett, in May. Since then, she has struggled to enroll him elsewhere. Four schools have denied admission, citing the expulsion on his record.

11-year-old Michigan boy expelled: Mother Says Son Acted to Protect Classmates

McClurkin says another student handed Sakir a loaded firearm in a school bathroom, triggering the incident. Sakir’s godfather taught him gun safety, and Sakir understood that weapons were not allowed on campus.

“He wasn’t going to hold that gun all day,” McClurkin told NBC News. “So he went to class and dismantled it.”

Sakir reportedly placed the disassembled gun inside a classroom heater and threw the bullets in the trash. According to the report, a teacher and other students were present. Eventually, students alerted an administrator.

Michigan student expelled: District Defends Expulsion Decision

McClurkin said Sakir didn’t immediately notify an adult because he was scared and unsure what to do.

The Lansing School District issued a statement saying its decision followed a “thorough investigation,” including video review and witness testimony. However, it claimed the full account had not been publicly reported and warned against “selective statements” that create “a false narrative.”

“Disciplinary action would not have been warranted for disarming another student,” the district said. It emphasized that student and staff safety remains its top priority.

According to reports, police took the student who brought the gun into custody.

Family Struggles to Find New School

McClurkin said the district has failed to offer alternative schooling options. While she fights, Sakir is enrolled in an unaccredited online program and stays active with sports.

“I’m upset with everybody,” McClurkin told the outlet. “Not just the district. The teachers, administrators, even the city. They didn’t handle this right.”

GoFundMe Campaign Seeks Community Support

To help cover educational costs and household needs, McClurkin launched a GoFundMe campaign. The fundraiser describes Sakir as a respectful A/B student and longtime athlete who acted “out of courage and compassion” to protect his classmates.

“Instead of being recognized as a hero, Sakir is now being treated like a criminal,” the campaign states. It also notes that McClurkin had to reduce her work hours to educate Sakir at home, creating financial strain.

The fundraiser is asking the community to donate or share the page to support Sakir’s continued learning and well-being.

“Sakir acted out of bravery and love,” the campaign reads. “Let’s show him that same love now.”

Mother Vows to Keep Fighting for Son’s Education

McClurkin continues to fight for her son’s education, insisting he deserves better.

“All I’m trying to do is be a good parent,” she said. “Make sure my son gets the education he deserves.”

To learn more or donate, visit the GoFundMe campaign here.