HSE Schools athlete previously suspended, will still compete at swim meet

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By Noah Alatza

A Hamilton Southeastern Schools student who was previously suspended for harassment will be allowed to compete in a swim competition at HSE High School Feb. 16.

Fishers Police Dept. Sgt. Tom Weger said a harassment case, which originated at Fishers High School, was reported in December 2018. He said the case is open but not an active investigation.

A planned protest by parents who are unhappy with the decision is scheduled for today at noon, the same time as the swim meet.

A Facebook event page called “Protest against HSE School District and IHSAA” was created by parents who disagree with the district’s actions.

“The school district and IHSAA are sending a clear message to our students that male athletes are not held accountable for sexual assault or threats of sexual assault,” a post on the Facebook page stated.

Weger said he could not provide any information about the student’s identify and could not comment on any action the school district has taken.

HSE school board member Brad Boyer said during a meeting Wednesday that board members were told the student would swim again. The administration was asked about it, and they said that through the investigation this was the final determination.

“We don’t have a lot of information, because as a board we are not involved in day-to-day issues of the schools,” Boyer said. “I was surprised that we were dealing with (the incident) or it came up at the meeting, because I thought it was done and I was alarmed that it came back up.”

Boyer said he does care passionately about this issue but he furthered additional comment to the HSE administration.

“In all situations involving allegations of student misconduct, our schools are guided by two principles – the safety and security of all students involved and the right to privacy afforded to them by law,” Emily Pace Abbotts, HSE’s Director of School and Community Relations, told Current. “Our process for responding to reports of harassment includes a thorough investigation and ongoing support for the well-being of all involved. This includes continued monitoring and taking into account any changing dynamics. We believe we have proceeded with this situation in the same manner.”


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