WHEATON, Ill. – Concerns over student safety at Wheaton Warrenville South High School in the suburbs of Chicago prompted parents to rally and address the school district’s board. The community became worried after a series of violent fights occurred on school grounds, sparking discussions on how to improve safety measures.
Following a recent altercation in a school bathroom that resulted in criminal charges being filed, the district has implemented changes to bathroom policies and hall pass procedures. However, parents and students believe that these adjustments are reactive and do not address the underlying issues leading to violence within the school.
Parents donning purple – a color symbolizing support for victims of domestic violence – gathered outside the high school to voice their concerns. They planted flags on the school lawn, each representing a disciplinary incident that took place the previous year, indicating a pattern of behavior that needs addressing.
“The concern is that disciplinary issues aren’t being handled appropriately,” said parent Amy Erkenswick. “The concern is we don’t have great communication with our school leadership,” she added, highlighting the need for improved dialogue and action.
The tipping point arose when a student was injured in a fight in a high school bathroom on February 28, leading to widespread community outrage. Despite changes to bathroom policies and increased supervision, students expressed their doubts about the effectiveness of these measures in preventing future violent incidents.
Students voiced their opinions at the school board meeting, with senior Nicolas Graham stating that restricting bathroom access does not address the root causes of violence. Parents echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of a proactive approach rather than reactive measures.
During the meeting, eighth-grade student Tyler Anderson shared his unsettling experience of being physically disciplined by a teacher and coach at the school. The Anderson family raised concerns about the teacher’s continued presence within the district, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in addressing such incidents.
While the school officials highlighted the positive aspects of the school and its students, the community’s collective voice emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive changes to ensure student safety and well-being. The school board refrained from responding to the public comments, leaving room for continued discussions and actions to address the issues raised by parents and students.