School Officials Say Homecoming Dance Was Shortened Because of Unsafe Behavior

The following statement was provided by the office of the superintendent of schools regarding the developing story of last night's MHS Homecoming dance.

The Middletown High School Homecoming dance was shortened because of unsafe behavior by students who did not agree with the no-grinding rule as outlined in the Middletown High School handbook.

The decision was made out of an abundance of caution and after several warnings were given to the students. A connected message was sent out informing parents that the dance was canceled.

The students driving were not permitted to leave the premises until the communication to parents was released. There was a police cruiser and police outside helping with students who were exiting the building and in the parking lot.

Students who needed rides called parents and waited inside the gym lobby or inside the gym. The administration and chaperones remained inside the building with students who were waiting for rides.

If students behaved in an unsafe way outside, the police were there to handle the situation.

There was no near riot as reported. Student safety was at the forefront when the dance was terminated early. The students were addressed and were asked to cooperate with the no grinding rule.

Any student who purchased a ticket was aware of the no grinding rule for the dance. It was restated during lunches throughout the week, along with an explanation of how the breathalyzer was going to be administered.

There was also a Connect Ed message that was sent to parents the day of the dance regarding the no grinding rule and the dress code.