Fights at MCHS appear to be isolated

School district officials have confirmed rumors of multiple students being involved in a fight last week at Madison Central High School.

A statement from MCHS principal Dr. Teague Burchfield said adults “quickly intervened” and “no one was injured” in the incident.

“The overwhelming majority of Madison Central students meet and exceed our high expectations,” Burchfield said. “Unfortunately, several students have made the bad decision to fight at school. While adults quickly intervened and no one was injured, any kind of disruptive behavior in school is not acceptable. Student behavior that takes away from our positive and excellent school culture is not tolerated.” 

School officials did not say when the incident or incidents happened or how many students were involved but said all reported infractions will be investigated by school and district officials.

“All reported infractions are investigated,” Burchfield said. “And disciplinary measures can include removal from our school community and referral to the Academic Options Center.”

Last week, Madison Central administration reached out to MCHS parents with a letter to address concerns and reassure parents how seriously they take any disruptions at school, school district spokeswoman Gene Wright said.

“Additionally, last Friday there was an increased presence of law enforcement on campus as a precaution and to reinforce how seriously we take these matters,” Wright said. 

Madison Police released a statement on Thursday, Oct. 26, in reaction to a letter sent out to parents.

“The Madison Police Department is aware of several incidents and rumors that involve Madison Central High School and have taken each action seriously,” the MPD statement reads. “As such, we will have an increased presence at the school for the upcoming days to make sure all of our children continue to have a safe learning environment.”

MPD officials have not responded to requests for further comment.

Wright went on to say that operations at the school have continued as usual.

“This week we have seen the excellent behavior we expect from our students at Madison Central and across the district,” Wirght said.