CANTON, Miss. (WJTV) – A student was arrested at a Canton middle school after officials said a gun and drugs were found on the campus.

The incident happened at Nichols Middle School on Thursday, March 21.

Canton Public Schools Superintendent Gary Hannah said the principal conducted a search of a classroom at the request of a teacher because the teacher smelled marijuana. He said the search resulted in the discovery of a small bag of marijuana, a clip and a gun.

The principal notified the district’s chief of security, who contacted local law enforcement. Hannah said the student’s parents were notified, and the student was transported to the Youth Detention Center.

“We are thankful for the quick thinking of our teacher and principal and the speedy response of our district’s security and local law enforcement. Parents, we want you to know that your children’s safety is of the utmost importance to us, and we will remain focused on keeping them protected at all times,” said Hannah.