Shockwaves as New Hampshire Students Face Expulsion Over Secret Photo Scandal
Outrage sparks as New Hampshire high school students accused of non-consensual photo sharing and grading of female classmates' intimate body parts Concerned parents receive shocking letters from Principal Robert Jozokos, revealing the disturbing incident involving 9th and 10th graders at Bedford High School
Several male students from Bedford High School in Bedford, New Hampshire, who are mostly in the 9th and 10th grade, were found to have taken inappropriate photos of female students in the 11th and 12th grade without their consent. The photos were then graded and shared among others. High School Principal Robert Jozokos sent letters to parents on Thursday and Friday addressing this issue. One of the letters, shared with CNN by the Bedford School District, states that students involved in this behavior will be required to attend a meeting with their parents and may face consequences such as Saturday School, in-suspension, or out-of-school suspension, depending on their level of involvement.
School officials will meet with parents and students on Monday to develop a strategy for rejuvenating and upholding a secure and polite atmosphere for students. In a second communication sent to parents on Friday, it was stated that a student had shared "two collages of girls" with administrators. The collages depicted girls wearing bathing suits or shorts and tops, and none of the photographs were taken within the school premises or on campus.
According to the letter, administrators conducted interviews on Friday with around 35 students of both genders from all grade levels regarding the incident. The letter mentioned that some students voluntarily approached the administrators, while others were contacted for further information.
The letter stated that the collages and individual pictures were shared on Snapchat, a messaging and social networking app, without the girls' consent.
According to the letter, it is currently known that two students received the images, and student reports suggest that three to five students were involved in sharing them.
A Change.org petition was initiated on Thursday by a female student in her senior year at Bedford High School, advocating for the expulsion rather than suspension of the students involved. The petition highlights concerns about the treatment of young women and emphasizes their refusal to be objectified or treated as disposable items.
The petition, which currently has over 2,800 signatures as of Monday afternoon, urges the Bedford community and beyond to stand in solidarity with our protest against the lack of discipline demonstrated by Bedford.
"These students do not belong in our school and must be expelled without delay. The harm they have caused to our community is permanent and cannot be rectified except through justice for their shockingly irresponsible behavior," states the petition.
Bedford School District Superintendent Michael Fournier stated in an email to CNN that once the investigation is finished, the high school administration will decide on the appropriate actions for the students involved. Fournier emphasized the importance of maintaining objectivity until all the facts are presented, as he might be involved in any appeals brought forward.
Furthermore, Jozokos, an administrator, informed the parents of the girls who were identified in the photos, and any other girls who could potentially be identified will also receive contact. Jozokos also mentioned that the incident was reported to the police.
Administrators received reports about physical trading cards featuring the girls, but despite students mentioning them, they have been unable to locate any. There have been no images found containing student names or grades, and the information regarding this has not been confirmed as of today.
The letter mentioned that there are ongoing inquiries concerning certain matters that are yet to be discovered. Jozokos encouraged students to step forward and provide any information they may have.
As per the letter, students will have access to community education advocates and the dean of students on Monday.
"The Bedford School District expresses solidarity with all individuals who have experienced any form of harassment. We have actively collaborated with community resources to provide support to students and families whenever they require assistance," stated Fournier in a letter addressed to parents on Friday. Situated about 50 miles west of Portsmouth, Bedford, New Hampshire, is the location of the school district.
CNNs David Williams contributed to this report.
