Northrop students protest after alleged threats of sexual assault

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - About 20 students left class early and gathered outside Northrop High School to protest what they say are ongoing threats of sexual assault against students.

The students held signs and called for accountability, saying they had brought their concerns to the principal, counselors, and teachers but that nothing was done.

Lily Kahn said she had been threatened with sexual assault and that Fort Wayne Community Schools was not taking the issue seriously.

“There are incidents where kids can still go into their sports; don’t get suspended, don’t get expelled when they should,” Kahn said.

Kalena Dye said the students would continue to protest if necessary.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe at school, and if this isn’t enough, then we will continue to do this until it gets up to the superintendents,” Dye said.

In a statement to 21Alive, a Fort Wayne Community Schools spokesperson said the district takes all reports of inappropriate behavior, harassment, and threats seriously.

“When reported, school administrators investigate and, if allegations are substantiated, students are disciplined in accordance with the FWCS Code of Conduct,” the spokesperson said. “We encourage students and families to report concerns so they can be addressed promptly and appropriately.”

The district did not say whether it was continuing to look into the claims from Northrop students.

21Alive is continuing to investigate.