KANSAS CITY, Ks. - The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department has concluded its criminal investigation into the recent incident involving members of the Bishop Ward High School senior class. While the matter will not proceed through the criminal justice process, Bishop Ward considers the incident serious and inconsistent with the school community's values and expectations. The school will continue addressing the matter through a thorough formal internal review process conducted in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
In response to this incident, Bishop Ward has implemented significant restorative accountability measures, including restitution, community service, and disciplinary consequences. Students involved will also forfeit the opportunity to participate in graduation ceremonies, and their transcripts and diplomas will be withheld until all disciplinary and restitution requirements are fulfilled. The school will also implement additional policies and safeguards intended to strengthen accountability and help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Catholic education calls us to balance accountability with mercy. Bishop Ward understood that criminal prosecution in this case carried life-altering legal consequences. In responding to this incident, the school intended to address the seriousness of the matter while also fostering responsibility, learning, and personal growth in its students.
The commencement ceremony for Bishop Ward High School’s graduating class has been rescheduled to Tuesday, May 26. While the events of recent weeks have been difficult for the community, the school is looking forward to coming together to recognize this important milestone and celebrate the accomplishments of its graduating class.
Bishop Ward is grateful to the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department for its assistance with this investigation and to its faculty, staff, families, and students for their patience and support throughout this difficult time.