ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. – School officials released details into the incident happened at Zephyrhills High School on Tuesday involving 14 students.
According to officials, two separate altercations involving fourteen total students co-occurred in the cafeteria and a hallway during the transition of two student groups at lunchtime.
“Our school security and dedicated staff members promptly intervened. However, the sheer number of students involved and the intensity of the situation made their intervention challenging, as students continued to engage in the altercation despite efforts to de-escalate,” said Pasco County Schools.
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Following the incident, out of an abundance of caution and considering the number of students involved, the school administration decided to place the school on a controlled campus status through dismissal.
This decision was made to ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff. In collaboration with the administrative staff, the principal is reviewing the incident for appropriate disciplinary actions and assisting the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office in their ongoing investigation.
Superintendent Kurt Browning stated, “Let me be perfectly clear: behavior of this nature will not be tolerated in Pasco County Schools. Every student has the right to a safe and conducive learning environment, and we will take every necessary measure to ensure that this remains the case.”
“The involved students and staff are off campus today for the safety and well-being of all students and staff. We have also placed additional officers at the school today out of an abundance of caution. Pasco County Schools are committed to the safety and education of our students and will continue to work diligently to ensure a secure environment for all,” said Pasco Schools.
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