On Aug. 29, numerous physical altercations took place at Clarke Central High School. Principal Dr. Swade Huff responded to the incidents in an email to CCHS parents. “My primary goal is to ensure that your child receives the best education possible in a safe and orderly school environment,” Huff wrote.”
In an email to parents, Clarke Central High School Principal Dr. Swade Huff responds to several incidents of physical altercations that took place in the school building on Aug. 29.
Multiple physical altercations occured at Clarke Central High School throughout the school day on Aug. 29, prompting a response from the CCHS administration.
“Recent events stemming from social media and outside influences have caused learning disruptions in the school. This is unacceptable behavior and will not be tolerated,” Principal Dr. Swade Huff wrote in an email to parents.
According to Huff, disciplinary action has been taken against all students involved.
“Please note, all students involved in the physical altercations at our school today are being disciplined per the (Clarke County School District) Student Code of Conduct,” Huff wrote. “In addition, as appropriate, referrals have been made to the CCSD Police Department and to the district office for further disciplinary action.”
For students like freshman Eleanor Matthews, the altercations negatively impacted the school day.
“Some people don’t find interest in (fights) and just want to get to class,” freshman Eleanor Matthews said. “I feel like it slowed down those who really wanted to learn by making them late to class.”
English department teacher Lisa Hill was disappointed in the actions of students involved in the altercations.
“As teachers, we pour our heart and energy into these kids that we want to see make positive decisions,” Hill said. “I was frustrated because some of (the students involved in fights) were former students of mine that I had been really close with and I thought we were taking a lot of steps forward and yesterday was a giant step back.”
While disappointed, Hill believes the administration responded in a positive and appropriate manner.
“(The administrative team) handled things really well and they have taken the appropriate measures to punish the right people and in the right way,” Hill said. “And (the next day) they came to school with smiles on their faces and were able to reflect on the fact that these students weren’t the ones that got in trouble yesterday — and (the next day) we had a great day at school, which I think is the sign of true leadership.”
According to Huff, the CCHS Administrative Team will proceed as normal in the coming school days with a continued focus on maintaining a positive school climate.
“Our priority is to give every student the opportunity to engage academically, socially and emotionally in a space which is conducive to teaching and learning,” Huff wrote. “While we are disappointed in today’s events, I am proud to say majority of our students are representatives of the (CCHS) brand. As true Gladiators, we will return tomorrow with a renewed focus on student learning, growth and character.”
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