The Little Elm School District is making some changes after being accused of mishandling a sexual assault investigation and subsequent student protest.
After a heated “listening session” last night, Little Elm Superintendent Daniel Gallagher says from now on, an independent committee will review the district’s sexual harassment reporting and investigating process.
"We want to take any allegations seriously," Gallagher says. "I think letting our community have an inside look into our procedures is the right thing to do, which is why we put that committee together."
This controversy started when one student accused another of sexual assault. According to the district, Little Elm police did a thorough investigation and there was not enough evidence to prove any kind of crime was committed. Nobody was punished -- and that didn’t sit well with quite a few students who felt the district needed to do more. They staged what was supposed to be a peaceful protest, but the demonstration ended in violence. Four students were arrested and one police officer was injured.
"I am appalled, utterly disgusted, by the lack of leadership that was shown regarding this entire situation," one parent said during last night's meeting. "You've demonized our kids, demonized sexual assault victims, allowed our children to be tased, manhandled, arrested and jailed."
"Fix it," said another. "Do better."
The district says it's working to restore trust. In order to do so, it's taking these steps:
1. An independent committee will review Little Elm ISD's sexual harassment reporting and investigation process.
2. The district's Safety and Security Committee will review Friday's incident.
3. The alleged sexual misconduct will be investigated independently.
The town of Little Elm also launched a website, LittleElmFacts, to dispel rumors and fight disinformation surrounding the protest.
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