The principals of Valley Center and Topeka high schools issued a joint statement on Friday following reports of allegedly racist and inappropriate behavior from Valley Center students during a basketball game. Online threats made afterward led to the closure of Valley Center High School on Wednesday.
The principals said in the statement that footage from the game was reviewed. Statements were also collected and shared between the schools.
Upon completion of the investigation, the officials said that several students at Valley Center received consequences for their behavior, although federal law via the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) will not allow specific details to be shared.
You can read part of the statement below:
“Valley Center High School and Topeka High School would like to recognize the student-athletes for the manner in which they handled themselves during and immediately following the game given the circumstances. Additionally, Valley Center High School would like to, as previously stated, apologize for the students in the student section who acted inappropriately. Both schools acknowledge that although some information that began circulating following the game was factual, there have been numerous reports that are exaggerated and/or inaccurate. This has led to responses from both communities that have become inflamed and disappointing. This is not appropriate, does not provide for a productive environment where true change can occur, and is currently being addressed by the schools and communities appropriately.”
The schools said they’re committed to repairing the harm caused, adding that they will take actions that will hopefully lead to positive change regarding racism and sportsmanship.
