Students Caught With List That Ranks Girls' Attractiveness: MCPS

BETHESDA, MD — Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School students were caught circulating a list that rated the attractiveness of approximately 18 senior girls, according to an email the principal sent to families on March 9. The students who created and distributed the list have been disciplined.

"This incident has been very upsetting for students, staff and families," Principal Donna Redmond Jones wrote. "B-CC High School has no tolerance for bullying. Our school strives to create a sense of belonging and respect for all students. This incident does not reflect those values."

In the letter, Jones said that the list contained the girls' first names and a rating. What criteria the students used to rate each senior is unclear. According to Jones, the students were punished for their actions.

No other information regarding the students was immediately available.

Published below is a copy of the letter Jones sent to parents on March 9:

Dear B-CC Families,

I am writing to make you aware of an incident that has affected our learning community.

Earlier this week the administrative team received a report that several students had created and circulated a list of approximately 18 senior girls' first names with a "rating" beside the name. The ratings were used to rank the students.

This incident has been very upsetting for students, staff and families. B-CC High School has no tolerance for bullying. Our school strives to create a sense of belonging and respect for all students. This incident does not reflect those values.

The administrative team investigated the matter, and assigned consequences based on the MCPS Student Code of Conduct.

Throughout this week a variety of meetings have been held to enable the students most directly affected to share the personal impact of this incident. In addition, students had the opportunity to discuss and generate steps that must be taken to restore a sense of community. These meetings are only an initial step. Ongoing engagement with the broader school community is necessary to empower those who are the targets of bullying as well as those who are aware of bullying to speak up and speak out against it.

Counselors have been collaborating with the administrative team to support students.

If you or your child ever becomes aware of bullying, please report it to a member of the administrative team right away. Information can be collected on the reporting form at this link: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/forms/pdf/230-35.pdf

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with questions.

Sincerely,

Donna Redmond Jones, Ph.D.

Principal