An unloaded handgun was found in a toilet at Ridgeland High School in Walker County, Ga., before school began Thursday.
Officials said the weapon was found under water in the toilet at 8 a.m.
Custodial staff removed the small-caliber handgun, and law enforcement officials were called in to investigate.
Elaine Womack of the Walker County Schools said, "It was determined immediately that the gun was unloaded and therefore did not pose an immediate threat.
"After a safety check of the campus, the situation was well under control and did not warrant a lockdown or evacuation.
"The first concern is the safety of students and staff. Trained administrators and staff followed procedures established by state law and Walker County School Board of Education policy to handle the situation and assure safety.
"As a precaution to avoid possible unfounded rumor and unnecessary concern by parents, the SchoolCast Automatic Notification System was engaged to notify parents of the occurrence and the message was posted on the Ridgeland High School website.
"Again, authorities determined there was no threat to persons or property and no need for either a lockdown or evacuation. School continued as scheduled without incident."