The Kalispell Police Department is investigating a vandalism case at Flathead High School.
In the early hours of Tuesday morning, school staff discovered that Flathead had been broken into and vandalized in areas of the building, including some classrooms. The damage included broken windows, destroyed drinking fountains, sawdust and toilet paper tossed in hallways and common areas, as well as trash containers being damaged, according to school officials.
Police were notified and began an immediate investigation. An initial investigation has determined the suspects likely gained entry to the school through a broken window, according to school officials.
Classes were able to start on time with little interruption due in large part to the assistance of staff, coaches and members of the football team who arrived early for conditioning, along with the custodial staff. School Resource Officer Corey Clarke and the Kalispell Police Department will continue in the investigation.
Superintendent Mark Flatau said the extent of the damage is still being assessed but it is estimated to be “in the thousands” of dollars.
Flatau said police are seeking multiple suspects.
“We hope that we can hold those responsible accountable for their behavior,” Flatau said. “This is not representative of the students and staff of Flathead High School.”
So-called senior pranks are not uncommon at high schools in the final weeks before graduation, and Flathead and Glacier administrators have explicitly warned students and families about the unaccepted behavior. Graduation is June 3. A pamphlet mailed last week to families with graduating seniors stated, “Individuals will be held accountable for senior pranks that promote illegal activities at school. This includes actions that are disruptive, distracting, incompatible, or harmful to school operations. Depending upon the severity of the illegal activity, the discipline consequence may include suspension or expulsion, and exclusion from the graduation ceremony.”
“We don’t condone (senior pranks) in any way, shape or form. But this is clearly way beyond a prank. It was illegal activity. There was deliberate damage,” Flatau said.
“This is just really unfortunate.”