Fears Linger At Wilde Lake

Officials Fail To Ease Parents' Concerns After Alleged Assault At Middle School

Parents asked about the incident, whether the two males had any previous convictions and what precautions the school would take to prevent future problems.

Parents were reminded repeatedly that many details of the case are confidential because it involves juveniles. Officials told parents that there are plans to evaluate whether to add to the eight video cameras in the school. Parents also were informed that if the boys are charged in the incident, they would be charged as juveniles.

"The incident at hand is troubling for all of us," said PTA President Debbie Clutts. "My heart goes out to the children involved. It has been frustrating because we have not been able to get all our questions answered because they are juveniles."

Valerie Mohammed said she wanted to share some "good news" about the school.

"My kids have had a great experience here," she said.

Superintendent Sydney L. Cousin said he felt the meeting was a success.

"I think we did a good job," he said.

If the boys are convicted in the incident, Cousin said, he did not want them returning to the school.

"That is a big but," he said. "We want to make sure all kids get the benefit of an education. The real question is, where are they going to receive it?"