MADISON, Wis. —  Vel Phillips Memorial High School staff received a tip near the end of the school day on Wednesday, that a student had a firearm, according to Madison Metropolitan School District spokesman Tim LeMonds. In response, LeMonds said staff contacted MMSD's Office of School Safety and the City of Madison Police Department. 

Staff identified the 16-year-old student who had a weapon and "isolated them in a safe and secure area of the school," according to MMSD. Police conducted a search of the student and found a loaded handgun. Police said they were able to “safely take possession of the firearm.”

Police said the student was taken to the Juvenile Reception Center and has been charged with possession of a firearm on school property.

Authorities added that MMSD is cooperating with MPD’s investigation. The school is located at 201 S. Gammon Road in Madison, Wis.

"Weapons of any kind have absolutely no place in our schools and we are taking this incident very seriously. All cases involving students in possession of weapons at school results in an immediate recommendation for expulsion, in addition to serious law enforcement consequences," LeMonds said. "MMSD and Memorial High School staff would like to reiterate the importance of 'if you see something, say something,' which in this case, allowed school staff to respond very quickly to address the incident with the best possible outcome. We would also like to commend the coordinated efforts of Memorial staff and MPD who handled the situation very professionally and in accordance with their training." 

Memorial High School will have student services staff for those in the school community who want support. 

This story is developing. Check back for updates.