Sexual Assault At Frost Middle In Fairfax Under Investigation: FCPS

FAIRFAX, VA — Dr. Michelle C. Reid, the superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools, sent home an email to Frost Middle School families on Thursday addressing an alleged sexual assault involving two students, according to news reports.

Fairfax County Police told ABC7 News that a female student was sexually assaulted on Jan. 12 by another student in a school bathroom. Police and school officials were only made aware of the incident on Thursday.

Reid said the suspect has not been identified.

A buddy system will be put in place when students go to a restroom or leave the classroom, she said.

Police will conduct interviews and review school surveillance video as part of the investigation, according to ABC7 News.

The following is the full text of Reid's email:

Dear Frost MS Families and Staff,

Today we were made aware of an alleged sexual assault last week involving two students in a bathroom. We contacted authorities immediately and we are collaborating with police as they investigate. At this time, the alleged suspect has not been identified. Please be aware that because this is an ongoing police investigation, we are unable to provide additional details at this time. We also must maintain student privacy and confidentiality.

This is difficult news to comprehend and I understand there may be shock, fear and anxiety. Counselors and clinical staff will be available to support any student or staff member who has anxiety or concerns. While additional adult supervision and support will be provided in school, we recognize families may want to take time to process this information together and may find this resource helpful.

The safety of our students is our number one responsibility and we will always take immediate action as soon as we are made aware of any allegations of a crime or safety issue. We will have additional adult support in the building, including security. We will also be implementing a buddy system for when students go to the bathroom or leave the classroom.

If you have information to share, the FCPS Office of Safety and Security has a safety tip line that you can access anonymously online, by text or by phone. You can also contact Fairfax County Police Major Crimes Bureau if you have any information you would like to share at 703-246-7800, option 3.

Please know that we are here to support you and your child in any way possible during this time. Do not hesitate to reach out to staff during school hours at 703-426-5700.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michelle C. Reid
Superintendent