Indiana School Investigates After Students Suffer Severe Burns
Parents of students at Warren Central High School in Indianapolis are expressing outrage following an incident during a majorette practice that resulted in multiple girls suffering from second-degree burns. On September 18, 2023, a heat index approaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit led to students being instructed to perform bear crawls on a track that likely exceeded 100 degrees.
One parent, Travis Peagler, shared his shock after picking up his 14-year-old daughter, Trinity Peagler, from school. He discovered her hands were severely burned and blistered from the exercise. According to Trinity, she was subjected to additional conditioning drills due to her grades, which she described as excessive.
“Seeing her hands burned and blistered was heartbreaking,” Peagler stated. “I want to understand what made them think this was acceptable.” The severity of Trinity’s injuries necessitated treatment at Riley Hospital for Children, where doctors confirmed she sustained second-degree burns and is also being treated for heat exhaustion. Peagler noted that her recovery could extend over six months, with potential long-term effects.
In response to the incident, the MSD of Warren Township released a statement acknowledging the event and confirming an active investigation. A spokesperson emphasized the district’s commitment to student safety and the importance of addressing concerns promptly. “The safety and well-being of our student-athletes will always be our top priority,” the spokesperson said.
Peagler, a former member of the 82nd Airborne Division, expressed his concerns regarding the training methods used by the school. “I believe in discipline, but this crossed the line into danger,” he said. “No child should be subjected to this during a school activity.”
Another parent, Ronnisha Banks, shared a similar experience concerning her daughter, who is also a freshman on the majorette team. Banks revealed that her daughter sustained second-degree burns on her hands and blisters on her feet. “I was livid when I saw her injuries,” Banks remarked. “This is not just discipline; it’s child abuse.”
Both families are advocating for increased awareness regarding the dangers of such practices in schools. They are calling for accountability from school officials and the implementation of stronger safety measures to prevent future incidents. “We don’t want any other parents to endure what we are going through,” Peagler urged.
In light of the incident, Banks has contacted the Indiana Department of Child Services, while the Peagler family is seeking legal counsel. As of now, they have not filed any formal complaints. A police report was filed on the night of the incident, but it remains unclear whether any charges have been made.
As the investigation unfolds, both families hope their advocacy will lead to meaningful changes in school policies and practices regarding student safety during physical activities.
