Fight at Stephen Decatur Middle School draws police presence, superintendent condemns parent participation

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Police, fire and EMS were on the scene at Stephen Decatur Middle School Thursday afternoon.

The following robocall went out to SDMS families around 4:40 p.m.

"Good afternoon Stephen Decatur families, this is Denise Swarthout calling to let you know that we are investigating an incident that happened at SDMS during dismissal this afternoon. We don't have any details that we can share at the moment, but know that we are conducting a thorough investigation and those involved will be held accountable and disciplined accordingly. We will share information as appropriate, thank you for your patience and understanding."

Decatur Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Rochelle Clark issued a statement that said two schools had physical altercations and that parents participated. According to the statement, the district will be seeking charges where appropriate.

Read the full statement below:

"We had an unfortunate physical altercation in two of our schools today that involved both parents and students. Words can't express how horrific in nature I find this to be. The District depends on parents to assist in de-escalating fights, not condoning and participating in them. The District will not tolerate this type of behavior from anyone. The District will be seeking charges where appropriate and students will face discipline as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct, which includes suspension, up to two years of expulsion from DPS. DPS will continue to do what is necessary to ensure the safety of our students and staff."

WAND reached out to Decatur Police and Chief Shane Brandel sent the following statement:

"This is an active investigation, and we are working with DPS to identify all individuals involved, both students and parents. We are also working to determine the reason this incident happened in the first place. However, it is suspected, as usual, that social media played a role in this event. When our investigation is complete, those involved can expect to be arrested. It is disheartening to me to see such behavior from the students. It is outrageous to see this behavior from parents. It is my hope that all involved are held to account when they face justice. But be assured, we will do our part to get them there."

On Friday, the district posted a notice that Special Open and Closed Session Meetings were to be held on Wednesday, Jan. 31 at 4 p.m. to conduct student discipline/expulsion hearings. The board will meet at 4 p.m. and immediately move into a closed session to conduct hearings. At 5 p.m., an open session will resume to take action on discipline as needed.