Twenty-one seniors were suspended, barred from graduation, and required to pay for damages
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, NJ – In response to questions and inaccurate information circulating in the community, the Middle Township School District (MTSD) administration and Board of Education are sharing additional details about a vandalism incident that occurred at Middle Township High School on Monday, June 12, 2023, during the early morning hours.
The majority of the damage required cleanup efforts rather than repair or replacement, according to Superintendent Dr. David Salvo. The 21 people who gained access to the school were all seniors at the time and have since graduated. Paying the costs of the damage and cleanup were required for those diplomas to be granted.
Cleanup measures addressed toilet paper, water, mustard, syrup and other substances that had been spread around. Two items were damaged beyond repair: a $50 folding table and a $100 mirror in the dance studio.
MTSD administration and security staff conducted a comprehensive review of the incident and determined that the costs associated with the investigation, cleanup and restoration totaled $8,473.92.
All students who were identified as participants were suspended and not permitted to walk in the commencement ceremony on Friday, June 16. Additionally, each student was required to pay $403.52 to cover the costs of the damage and cleanup in order to receive a diploma. All 21 students did so.
Following this incident, the district conducted a review of all buildings to identify and reinforce security measures.