School officials say students have been playing the game at schools, in neighborhoods, and even at other students’ workplaces.
FCPS says any student caught with an item that looks like a weapon on school property or at a school event could face discipline, including suspension or expulsion.
The district is urging students to make safe choices and report concerns to a trusted adult.
Letter to parents and guardians from FCPS Principals:
“Dear FCPS High School Families:
Maintaining an open line of communication with our families is an important part of our commitment to building a culture of trust between home and school. Anytime there is an issue that impacts our campus or our students, we want you to know that we will share factual information with you directly.
We are aware of a game that has been circulating on student social media and via texting platforms that entices our students to engage in dangerous activities with water guns or Orby guns. Students have been involved in incidents related to participation in this game at school, neighborhoods, and even at other students’ place of work.
Students may join a location and tracking app, such as Life 360, so they can find other students who are playing the game. Participants in the game are encouraged to wear swim goggles or floaties to be “immune” to being tagged and utilize water projection devices to surprise other students and tag them.
We take student safety very seriously and while this may sound like harmless fun, there are inherent risks associated with this activity both on campus and in the community. As such, any student found in possession of items that look like a weapon on our campus or at any FCPS sponsored event will receive a consequence following the district code of conduct up to, and including, suspension or expulsion.
We want to thank everyone who reached out to make us aware. An important part of keeping our campus safe is emphasizing the importance of sharing any concern with a trusted adult immediately. Thank you for the privilege of working with your children and for your understanding that we are working diligently to provide a safe and welcoming learning environment on campus.
Please don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Principals
Antonio Blackman - Principal, Henry Clay High School
Lester Diaz - Principal, Frederick Douglass High School
Kristy Field - Principal, Tates Creek High School
Rebecca Shearer - Interim Principal, Bryan Station High School
Scott P. Loscheider - Principal, Paul Laurence Dunbar High School
Anthony Orr - Principal, Lafayette High School