Knife Drama

Kindergarten seems a little young to be dealing with knife issues at school, but the world is a much different place than when I grew up.  Last week, Jacob was having a conversation with Trevor about knives.  He wants one.  Trevor told him no, he is too young.  Jacob informed Trevor that his friend at school has one!  Trevor asked how he knew that and Jacob told him he brought it to school.  Apparently this boy had brought one to school in his pocket and told Jacob he had it.  Jacob never saw the knife.  Trevor didn't think it was a big deal.  They are Kindergartners after all.  But upon hearing which boy it was who brought the knife to school, I was a little alarmed.  Jacob's "friend" is kind of a terrorist.  He makes me a little nervous by some of his reported actions.  After explaining to Trevor what some of those alleged actions were, we decided to involve the school.  It turned out the knife was only a toy, but you really never know these days!  Jacob was not happy about telling on his friend.  He was worried he wouldn't want to be friends anymore.  While that didn't seem like a huge loss to me, I didn't want to hurt Jacob.  I told him he could remain anonymous and asked the teacher to do so.  We told Jacob he did the right thing by telling us and if this boy is to ever bring another knife or weapon to school he is to go straight to the teacher.  Knowing he was nervous about betraying a trust, I explained to him that he could do it secretly when the friend wasn't nearby or listening.  

On Friday, I received a phone call from Jacob's principal.  I was very nervous.  Unfortunately this has not been our first call from the principal on Jacob's behalf.  What did he do now?? - I thought.  I had a knot in my stomach as she explained there was a situation in Jacob's class today but they had handled it and had taken all the right steps to rectify the situation immediately.  Apparently another student brought a knife to school.  Jacob was a hero and ratted that poor kid out when he showed him the knife in confidence.  I'm not sure what compels these kids to share their weapons with my child,  Nevertheless, he did exactly what I told him to do.  It is such a rare and proud moment!!!  The principal was calling to inform me of the situation and gave kudos to Jacob for doing the right thing.  Trevor and I are SO proud!!  We celebrated by going out for pizza and ice cream in his honor.  It was a celebration in itself to receive a positive phone call from the principal!!!  Way to go Jacob!!!