Parent reacts to Hanover High School baseball program suspended due to misconduct reports
Nov 19, 2024
HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — A parent reacted Tuesday after Hanover County Public Schools announced the baseball program at Hanover High School has been suspended due to misconduct reports.
On Friday, Nov. 15, the school division announced on its website that all the high school’s varsity and junior varsity baseball activities would be suspended as a result of misconduct reports.
The suspension was reported as effective immediately, and the school said it would allow for an investigation into the allegations.
Assistant Superintendent Chris Whitley told 8News that, “the safety and well-being of our students is of the utmost importance and is our top priority in every decision we make. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to help ensure that the program is one where all students feel safe, respected, and supported.”
An anonymous parent, whose child is on the baseball team, told 8News that they attended Friday’s meeting and believe the suspension stems from allegations of bullying and hazing. They said they support the suspension if it means students will be safe.
The anonymous parent also believes people across the county prioritize athletics over protecting students, referring to the vandalism incident that occurred at Mechanicsville High School in October 2023.
8News asked Whitley if he could confirm these allegations of bullying or hazing. In a statement, Whitley said: “We are prohibited by state and federal law, as well as School Board policy, from sharing details concerning matters pertaining to specific students.”