Kiel School Board Says Investigation Is Over

Following weeks of public scrutiny and after receiving at least 5 bomb threats, the Kiel School Board announced Thursday evening the sexual harassment investigation involving three eighth grade students is now closed.

In an email sent to media Thursday (6/2/2022), Dr. Brad Ebert, Kiel School District Superintendent, said, “Over the last several weeks, our school district and community have been greatly impacted by media attention
related to a complaint involving harassment.

“One major concern at this point is that threats continue, to not only the schools but the Kiel Community. We have worked hard to find a resolution.

“With that said, we are writing to share with you that consistent with our Board policies and procedures, we have issued clear directives and expectations to all students involved in this matter for the purpose of preventing bullying and harassment and ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for all of our students.

Based on these actions, and pursuant to District policies and procedures, the School District considers this matter closed.”

The School District, and the Kiel Middle School specifically, were the targets of at least 5 bomb threats that began back on May 23. The threats also included numerous City of Kiel entities including city buildings and roads, grocery stores and power companies among others. There were never any devices found in any of the subsequent searches.

The investigation into the sexual harassment started when the three boys were accused of refusing to identify a student by their preferred pronouns. The school remained steadfast the past few weeks, saying it had to investigate under federal Title IX requirements.

A copy of the letter to student, families and staff can be viewed here: