Livingston Parish Schools announces results of investigation of vandalism at Springfield High School

SPRINGFIELD, La. -- Livingston Parish school leaders announced they have successfully identified 31 individuals involved in the various acts of vandalism that occurred at Springfield High School on April 25, causing damage to the school and disruptions to the learning environment the following morning as employees were diverted from their regular duties to help clean the campus.

 

It was determined that 28 of the 31 individuals involved in the acts of vandalism were Livingston Parish Public Schools students. Those students are being disciplined based on the severity of their participation in accordance with district procedures. Restitution is also required of those parties responsible for destroying and damaging property.

 

“The action taken by these individuals is not a prank. It is vandalism to school property, plain and simple, and this type of behavior is not acceptable,” Superintendent Jody Purvis said. “These individuals have disrespected their fellow students, the school’s employees and members of the Springfield community. Furthermore, their actions caused damage and disruption.”

 

The Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office assisted school leaders with the investigation. Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard issued the following statement: “At this time, we will yield to the disciplinary measures set forth by the Springfield High School administration and will continue to work with our school partners.”

 

Security cameras indicate several individuals accessed the campus by jumping the gate, eventually causing it to come off its hinges. Some individuals wore masks and carried items used to create a mess.

 

The first group of individuals entered the campus around 12:15 a.m. A second group of individuals entered the campus around 2:42 a.m.

 

Several students entered the school’s halls by going through a window. Some of those individuals who entered the building threw flour, glitter, ketchup, chili, hot dogs and mustard throughout hallways and classrooms. Vaseline was placed on several items. Sardines were placed on the ceiling and on rugs. Cups and toilet paper were thrown about the campus. Tables were overturned, items were placed on the roof, and soil was thrown onto concrete walkways.

 

“I want to thank the Springfield High and Springfield Elementary employees for their willingness to return the campus to a safe, healthy learning environment, allowing instruction for all students to resume as quickly as possible,” Purvis said.