HOOD RIVER — Following reports of discriminatory language at a high school varsity football game on Sept. 11, Hood River County School District (HRCSD) has concluded its investigation, and the results will remain undisclosed.
“State and federal privacy laws,” HRCSD Communications Director Stephanie Hoppe wrote in an email statement, “prohibit the district from disclosing specific internal findings, disciplinary outcomes or personal student information.”
During a game against Sam Barlow High School last month, an Eagles player allegedly used a racist slur twice. Referees did not directly overhear the language, but stopped play each time and informed coaches of what reportedly happened, in accordance with Oregon Scholastic Activities Association (OSAA) protocols.
Valerie Dixon, a Sam Barlow mother who did not respond to a request for comment, announced on Facebook that her Black son was one of the players targeted shortly after Hood River’s 21-28 loss to the Bruins.
To investigate the incident, HRCSD reviewed available game footage, gathered information from parties at both schools and evaluated reports based on district and state athletics policies, Hoppe explained. OSAA first asks school districts to collectively determine what occurred and an appropriate punishment, and may step in if both sides cannot reach an agreement.
“We have been in contact with the Hood River School District throughout their investigation and appreciate the updates they provided,” Athena Vadnais, communications director for Gresham-Barlow School District, wrote over email. She did not specify whether Gresham-Barlow was satisfied with the results.
Hood River County School District takes all reports of discriminatory language and behavior very seriously,” Hoppe wrote. “Our commitment to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment remains absolute.”
Separately, a North Salem High School player allegedly directed a racist slur at Dixon’s son on Sept. 18, prompting another investigation and a statement from Rep. Janelle Bynum, who serves Oregon’s 5th Congressional District and urged OSAA to do more to prevent discrimination from happening at high school sporting events.
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