A group of seven elementary school students all cut their wrists using blades from pencil sharpeners last month according to WUSA9. School officials from William Paca Elementary School in Hyattsville, Maryland confirmed the incident after a parent brought it their attention on March 29th.
The school said that the students were treated by the nurse and that none of the cuts were deep enough to warrant calling 911. The school banned pencil sharpeners and said a crisis counselor met with the students and their families. There are reports that incident could be related to bullying but the school would not comment on the reports because it could violate the privacy of the students. The school issued a statement to Fox 5.
The school's first priority was identifying students who may have engaged in this activity and contacting their parents to offer support. The investigation continued through spring break and after. The parents of seven students were contacted first to offer support.
During the investigation, messages were sent to all parents banning the use of handheld pencil sharpers as there are classroom pencil sharpeners available. The investigation has concluded. Today, a letter was sent to all parents informing them of the incidents, guidance lessons being taught in school, and counseling resources available if parents or students have concerns.