| By Bob Weaver
The Calhoun Board of Education denied a Calhoun woman's request to speak during open session at last night's meeting, while a second individual opted to make his comments during a closed or executive session.
The requests were related to a complaint issued by the parents of a 16-year-old Calhoun football player who allegedly had his hands and lower legs taped together, saying he ended up face-down on the locker room floor.
The parents are claiming the youth suffered "severe mental anguish and complications," calling it a violation of the school's hazing policy.
The incident happened during lunch hour, the parents saying coaches were not present.
Both individuals signed to speak to the board before the meeting to address issues related to the August 4th incident.
Sherry Patterson of Orma, the mother of the 16-year-old player who has now left the team, said she wanted to make a statement that her son "suffered a violent attack by certain (football) team members."
Board president Cynthia Dale told Patterson "Upon advice (of Superintendent Jane Lynch), you will have to speak in closed session."
Patterson declined, leaving the meeting, saying "I was not using any individuals names, and thought I would be allowed to speak. I'll have to talk with my attorney."
She said it has always been board policy to allow citizens to speak in open session, even over sensitive issues.
Community member Roger Propst, who appeared on behalf of players and several concerned parents, also signed to speak to the board.
Propst said he wanted to make his statement during open session, but decided to follow the direction of the board to go behind closed doors to make some views known.
Both Patterson and Propst gave copies of their statements to the Hur Herald and the Calhoun Chronicle.
Propst, in his statement, indicated the families of the boys believe that corrective measures were taken and the incident should be over.
Patterson said she is upset that the incident has been discounted as a "boys will be boys horse playing incident."
"I believe this attack falls under the level three violation of hazing," she said.
Propst contends that a number or reasonable and appropriate efforts were made to resolve the situation.
President Dale expressed dismay that she and the board members have little access to information about the incident, that the information is held confidential by the school superintendent and a Human Rights Officer within the system.
That officer has been identified as Kathy Nichols.
Dale said she has been told that the school system's investigation into the matter is subject to Title 9 control, that "it is a human rights violation."
The board is putting out for public comment, the system's policies related to bullying, harassment and intimidation and hazing.
More to follow...
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