Monhagen Middle School implements safety measures following violent altercation

The district aims to create a focused environment conducive to healing and addressing the aftermath of this distressing incident.

Lisa LaRocca

Dec 14, 2023, 11:20 AM

Updated 225 days ago

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Monhagen Middle School students experienced a delayed start Thursday, entering under the watchful eye of Wallkill police following the previous day's violent altercation.
Security measures were heightened, with students passing through metal detectors before entering the building.
"We are still processing what happened and making sure that we are providing appropriate care for our school community," Superintendent Amy Creeden said.
The incident involved a violent fight among a group of students during school start hours on Wednesday morning. Two 13-year-olds were injured, one with stab wounds. The school immediately initiated a lockdown, and the injured students received initial treatment from the school's nursing staff before being transferred to hospitals. One of the injured students remains in stable condition.
A 13-year-old was arrested and charged. Concerns about escalating violence in the district have been voiced by some community members.
An emergency closed-door meeting held by school administrators addressed safety and security issues. Alongside the delayed start, students were restricted from bringing large bags, backpacks or district-issued devices into the building.
A prescheduled school board meeting, now encompassing discussions about the recent incident, will take place this evening.
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