FERGUS – A 14-year-old youth has been charged with assault following an incident that occurred Thursday at Centre Wellington District High School.
Police were called to the school around 12 p.m., Wellington County OPP said in a media release.
An investigation determined a physical altercation occurred involving two students, OPP said.
As a result, police arrested and charged a 14-year-old Fergus resident with assault. The accused is scheduled to appear in court in Guelph at a later date.
The student who was allegedly assaulted sought treatment for injuries from a medical practitioner and was later sent home, Brent McDonald, Upper Grand District School Board Executive Superintendent of Education, said in an email.
"We want all to know how seriously the board and school take all acts of violence and hate toward individuals or groups of students," McDonald said in part in an emailed statement.
"We will not accept or tolerate messages or violent actions that discriminate against someone’s gender identity, sexual identity, race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability or creed," McDonald continued, adding such action will result in consequences that could include suspension, expulsion and criminal charges.
Asked if the school had reason to believe Thursday's incident was motivated by hate or discrimination, McDonald said that will be looked "as part of our usual and ongoing investigation."
"In the coming weeks, the school will be planning opportunities for parent/caregiver and student learning and voice, and will communicate updates and invitations to families to engage in these opportunities," McDonald said.
