Bullying policies reviewed after alleged sexual misconduct of high school football players

The Lake George, Warrensburg and Bolton school districts are launching a new tip line for students to report concerning behavior including bullying and harassment in the wake of the alleged sexual misconduct on a school bus.

Two members of the districts’ joint football team, ages 18 and 17, have been charged with public lewdness and endangering the welfare of a child in the incident. School officials said this happened in August while returning from an event in Syracuse.

The incident led to the districts cancelling their season on Nov. 2 just before the playoffs were to start. The team was ranked first in the state among small schools.

All three districts said in a statement that they are reviewing their policies and procedures regarding student safety. The investigations will continue, and disciplinary action will be taken according to the district’s Code of Conduct and Athletic Code of Conduct.

In addition, there will be additional meetings for coaches and student-athletes before the winter and spring seasons to review these policies and educational programming for students on how they can intervene in these types of situations.

Also, counseling services are available from each district.

“We encourage any student struggling with their emotions, or uncertain how to deal with this difficult situation to please reach out or stop by the counseling office, regardless of their involvement in football,” the districts said.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate action to maintain a safe learning environment for all our students. If we are able to share more information, we will reach out directly through our school messaging systems and update our websites.”