safety

Important Message Regarding Orbeez Gun Activity, Student Safety, and School Discipline

Dear Students and Parents/Guardians,

We are writing to address a serious and ongoing concern involving the use of Orbeez/gel blaster guns in neighborhoods surrounding East Union High School. We have received multiple reports that students have been participating in “Orbeez gun wars,” resulting in unsafe behavior, disruption to the community, and numerous complaints from local residents.

Of significant concern, these incidents have already resulted in injuries to students. While these devices may be marketed as toys, they can cause real physical harm. Their use in public areas has also caused fear, safety concerns, and confusion within the community and increases the risk of dangerous misunderstandings.

This behavior does not align with the expectations of East Union High School and will not be tolerated.
Students who engage in this activity may be subject to discipline under the California Education Code, including but not limited to:

Education Code §48900(a)(1) – Causing or attempting to cause physical injury to another person
Education Code §48900(b) – Possession of a dangerous object
Education Code §48900(k) – Disruption of school activities or defiance of school authority
Education Code §48915 – Circumstances that may result in recommendation for expulsion, depending on the severity of the behavior

Additionally, student involvement may result in action by law enforcement, particularly when these incidents occur in public spaces.

Please note that bringing Orbeez/gel blaster guns—or any imitation, replica, or look‑alike weapons—onto campus or any school‑related activity is strictly prohibited. Possession of these items on campus may result in suspension and potential recommendation for expulsion, consistent with district policy and state law.

We ask for your partnership in addressing this matter. Please have a direct conversation with your student about the serious safety risks, school expectations, and legal and disciplinary consequences associated with this behavior. Your support is essential to ensuring the safety of our students, staff, and surrounding community.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue and for your continued support of East Union High School.
Sincerely,

Michael Cipponeri Jr.
Vice Principal - East Union High School