L-S Superintendent Addresses Sexual Assault In Wake Of Lawsuit

SUDBURY, MA—This week, a former student at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School filed a lawsuit against the school and its officials over the handling of an alleged rape that occurred at the school when she was 15, according to reports.

The Massachusetts woman filed a civil action that she was sexually assaulted by two boys in November of 2013 during a football game at the school.

On Friday, Superintendent/Principal Bella Wong, one of the defendants named in the suit, addressed the issue in the daily morning message over the PA at the school.

"For legal reasons I cannot comment on details related to the lawsuit currently reported in the media," she began. "However, I’ve been made aware the impact of that coverage has caused at least some of you to wonder if you were a victim of sexual assault how safe are you to report that? While I can’t comment on the lawsuit I can address this."

Wong told students that sexual assault is an extremely serious matter, and stressed that learning the importance of recognizing when personal boundaries have been crossed how to respond "through de-escalation and/or remove yourself from those situations."

"I also cannot stress enough how important you know how to safely intervene on the behalf of others and that you do not turn away when you see something happens," she said. "I speak to you today to emphasize that in the event of any unwanted sexually verbal or physical contact to inform a trusted adult – whether it is a family member or one in school. I know that can be easier said and harder to do. Sometimes the first step is telling a friend and your friend can tell an adult on your behalf. The second you disclose to a trusted adult at L-S you will receive immediate attention and support."

Wong indicated that every situation is unique, as are individuals, and that a large range of counseling services is available, and many highly skilled professionals on staff.

"You can tell any adult in this building and they will know what to do to make sure you get the help that you need," said Wong. "As I said at the start of this message, sexual assault is a very serious matter. No matter who you are, no one should ever deal with that alone. I want you to know that here at Lincoln Sudbury you don’t need to. Don’t keep something like this to yourself, reach out."

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