State Police are now investigating the Highland modified football team after allegations that players sexually assaulted multiple boys in school were aired on a local television station.
News 12, last week, interviewed a mother who said her son was one of the students assaulted by a group of five teenage players.
Joel Freer, Superintendent of Schools, said both the Highland Central School District and the State Police conducted investigations. The school district’s investigation has been concluded.
“As soon as the District learned of the allegations, a thorough investigation was initiated, which included interviewing all students on the team, as well as anyone else who may have had knowledge. On Friday, we concluded this investigation, and consequences are now being administered in strict accordance with the New York State Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), the District’s Code of Conduct, and our Athletic Code of Conduct,” said Freer in a statement released last Friday. “I understand that our community is seeking details about the discipline that was administered, as well as more specifics about the incident itself; however, please understand that we are legally prohibited from speaking about individual students.
“In instances such as this, our inability to share the results of an investigation and details of consequences administered–even with a victim’s family–can leave the impression that discipline was not administered. This is not the case.”
Freer said the district is “committed to a proactive approach in preventing such incidents in the future” and will “intensify already existing bullying prevention programs.”
“I want to reassure you that the faculty, staff, administrators, and Board of Education at Highland Central School District care deeply about your child’s safety and well-being and will continue to work to provide a safe, inclusive, and accepting environment for all learners,” Freer said in a letter to district parents. “Our school counseling team, which includes social workers and school psychologists, is also available to provide support to any students in need.”