Behavioral Issues At Delco High School Prompt Changes: Reports

UPPER DARBY, PA — After incidents involving fire and violence, a Delaware County high school is making changes.

Last week, a fire was started and a fight broke out in Upper Darby High School.

Action News reports the school was evacuated Wednesday last week after a student lit a paper towel roll on fire, prompting an evacuation. Then on Thursday, the school was locked down when a group of girls, then their parents, got into a fight, the outlet reports.

These incidents prompted the school to shift to remote learning Friday last week.

According to Fox 29, the district is sending main office staff to the high school this week to help school administrators and there will be lesson plans on appropriate behavior and communication. Additionally, the district is hiring school hall monitors at $20 an hour.

District Superintendent Dan McGarry issued a plea to parents and guardians asking for their help in curbing similar behavior.

"We all play a vital role in promoting a positive learning environment. We continue to work with staff on building positive relationships with students through our Positive Behavior and Interventions and Supports system, trauma-informed care and instruction, and our work on equity," he said, according to the Delaware County Daily Times. "I know the last several months have been physically and emotionally draining, but our schools should be one of the safest places in a young person’s life."

The district is looking to bring in the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, the police superintendent, and fire chief for a presentation to students and parents about social media in light of the behavior of some students, Fox reports.