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Vandalism puts Marion grads on hold The Marion Board of Education has decided to delay the high school graduation ceremony scheduled for Friday, June 26. Graduation plans will not be reconsidered unless and until an investigation being conducted by New York State Police and school officials identifies students believed to be associated with a vandalism episode at the high school. The vandalism occurred in the early morning hours of June 18. In addition, the Board of Education has suspended community use of all school facilities while the investigation is underway. On the night of June 17/18, vandals defaced with paint a large area of Warner Road in front of the high school, as well as the high school building itself, parking areas, the tennis courts, athletic buildings, and the scoreboard. Asphalt roadways, concrete, building brickwork, doors, and windows were painted with obscenities, numerals of class years, pictures, and other markings. Several school signs were taken down and carried off school property. Removal of the markings by school staff, professional cleaning contractors, and town personnel will take many hours and is estimated to cost several thousand dollars. By mid-morning on June 18, school officials and New York State Police were following up on leads provided by students and community residents. Parents of all senior class students were contacted individually, apprised of the situation, and were asked to help. New York State Police are conducting an extensive investigation using evidence collected on-site and are currently interviewing numerous individuals. Charges under consideration include Felony Criminal Mischief. The Board of Education supports full criminal prosecution of all individuals who may be charged. In addition, any students associated with the vandalism will be subject to a range of school disciplinary charges and penalties. The Board of Education believes that individuals who were not part of the vandalism activities know who the participants are. The Board of Education further believes that a concerned school community will assist in identifying and separating the guilty parties from the larger group of responsible students who take pride in their school and community. The Board of Education looks forward to reinstating Graduation and other school activities upon completion of a successful investigation.
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