SPOKANE, Wash. – A letter released to parents by Mead School District on Wednesday says that a potential hazing incident involving the Mead High School Football Program at an athletic camp during the summer of 2023 is being investigated.
The exact nature of the purported behavior was not revealed by the district in the letter, which was co-signed by Superintendent Travis Hanson, Principal Kimberly Jensen and Football Program Head Coach Keith Stamps.
“We do believe it’s important to share that a significant number of student/athletes took part (both directly and indirectly) in inappropriate and offensive behavior that involved elements of hazing, including acts of intimidation and targeted harassment,” the letter said.
The district said that an investigation into the incident has only just begun, though the alleged conduct took place nine months ago.
“For many reasons, this has been a complex situation to navigate, and it’s important we acknowledge the toll this has taken on students and families,” the letter said.
The district shared a link to a google form for parents who have questions about the alleged hazing and harassment. A meeting to answer parental concerns is scheduled for May 13 at 6:30 pm on the high school’s campus.
Hanson, Jensen and Stamps concluded their message to the Mead community by looking to the future of the high school football program.
“Thank you for being a part of the future of Panther Football, partnering with us as we work to empower young people to reach their full potential, both on and off the field,” the letter said.
It is not clear whether law enforcement is involved in the investigation into what occurred at the camp last summer, or whether any players have been disciplined.
