Pleasant Grove ISD releases statement after complaints of misconduct during Oct. 29 volleyball game

TEXARKANA, Texas (KSLA) – STATEMENT RELEASED BY PLEASANT GROVE ISD

Pleasant Grove ISD is aware of the allegations regarding unsportsmanlike conduct by students during the recent volleyball match between Pleasant Grove High School and North Lamar High School, held on October 29 at PGHS. We take these claims seriously and strive to create a respectful and positive environment for all who attend PGISD events.

We have conducted a thorough investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident. This joint investigation with North Lamar ISD included interviews with students and staff from both schools and game officials. We also reviewed video footage from multiple sources, including security cameras, game film, broadcasts, and cell phone recordings.

Our investigation confirms that during a very intense game between the two schools, the outcome of which determined the district championship, a few spectators on the PGISD sidelines engaged in unsportsmanlike comments and gestures toward the NLHS team. This behavior is below the standard PGISD sets for students and fans. The district has policies regarding student conduct and we address violations appropriately.

There is a more serious accusation of spitting on the NLHS players, which has been spread on social media. Our investigation has shown that this statement is completely incorrect. The NLHS volleyball coach confirmed that he interviewed all players and that no players reported being spit on. Additionally, PGISD interviewed witnesses in the area, but no one came forward with any indication of spitting. Video evidence does not show any saliva coming from the mouth of the person accused, nor any reaction from the players who may have been spit on. Witnesses reported that the person accused of spitting in the video (who is not a Pleasant Grove student) was actually barking.

Three days after the game, PGISD learned that an NLHS student claimed to have heard a racial slur. This claim was not made by any player, coach, referee or fan during the event, and PGISD has not found any evidence to suggest this claim is true. PGISD condemns any behavior that would create a discriminatory environment. While PGISD is not aware of such discriminatory behavior, PGISD encourages anyone who believes they have witnessed something like this to report it immediately so it can be addressed.

Our priority is to ensure that all participants uphold the values of good sportsmanship, respect and integrity, which are fundamental to our educational and athletic programs. Moving forward, PGISD will provide an environment conducive to a positive gaming atmosphere for all attendees. We are creating more physical space between the student area and the team benches. We are going to place the employees closer to the student department. We also strengthen our commitment to teaching and promoting good sportsmanship and fan etiquette among our students.

We appreciate the assistance of the North Lamar ISD administration and coaches in this investigation. We also appreciate the community’s support as we investigate this matter and will provide further updates as necessary.