Students fall ill at Rancho Cordova elementary school after eating THC-laced candy

Several students at Robert J. McGarvey Elementary School in Rancho Cordova were sickened Thursday after eating candy brought by a student that contained THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, school officials said in a letter to families.

“The packaging closely resembled regular candy, and the student who brought it to school was unaware that it contained THC,” McGarvey Principal Carrie Mitchell said in the letter.

“The fire department and emergency medical personnel responded promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of all affected students. We are grateful for their quick and professional response,” said Mitchell. McGarvey Elementary School, in the 4300 block of Sophistry Drive in Rancho Cordova, is in the Elk Grove Unified School District.

McGarvey officials said the Thursday incident serves as a reminder to families to carefully check packaging, and keep medicines and recreational substances secured and out of children’s reach. Parents should also remind students not to share food or candy at school, because students may not know what the items contain.

School officials said families should also be aware of what their children are carrying to class.

“We encourage all families to be aware of what students bring in their backpacks and to remind children to only bring items needed for their daily learning,” officials said.

Anyone with questions or concerns about the incident is asked to call the school at 916-793-3400.