An estimated seven dozen students met with Homewood-Flossmoor High School administrators Tuesday after school to discuss their concerns a day after a student was allegedly sexually assaulted in the South Building.
Flossmoor police are investigating the alleged sexual assault at H-F that police say occurred Monday morning, Oct. 31.
No one has been charged, and one male student questioned by police was released to his father. Police said the investigation is ongoing. No further details were released by police.
In an email sent to students, parents and staff Tuesday evening, administrators outlined the efforts they are undertaking to make students feel safe at school and to address their concerns.
At the student meeting Tuesday, the students broke into small groups to discuss the alleged incident. Discussions were led by social workers, school counselors and school psychologists. The email, sent by District 233 Superintendent Scott Wakeley and H-F Principal Clinton Alexander, said “the students openly shared their ideas and then reported to the larger group.”
According to the email, students listed four themes:
- Relationships with school staff to build a sense of safety.
- Safety measures, rules and enforcement.
- Education and awareness.
- Student voice.
The memo said District 233 will be working with the Homewood-Flossmoor Parent Association (HFPA) “to develop an engagement opportunity for parents and administration to partner on this important topic.”
School officials communicated to parents through email Tuesday morning, Nov. 1. The email, from Wakeley and Alexander, explained that the alleged incident happened when students were working in small breakout groups within the theater department to rehearse lines.
When the alleged incident was reported, school staff notified police and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
“The safety and security of our students and staff is paramount,” the message to parents said. “We are committed to following safety protocols and appreciate the patience of our school community.
“We are all feeling a variety of emotions, including shock, sadness, and anger. We want you to know that Homewood-Flossmoor High School staff members are specifically trained to process these emotions with your child(ren). If your child needs additional support, please contact me or your student’s social worker or school counselor immediately.”
District 233 said due to the privacy of the students, no additional information will be made available.
“We understand that members of our community want details and answers immediately. However, we must allow an investigation and the law enforcement process to take place. We also must respect the legal privacy rights of the minors involved,” the email to parents stated.