KSHB 41 reporter Rachel Henderson covers neighborhoods in Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties. Share your story idea with Rachel.
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UPDATE, Friday | Bishop Ward High School announced its plan for the students involved in a vandalism and property damage incident on May 8.
The school "implemented significant restorative accountability measures, including restitution, community service and disciplinary consequences," according to a press release Friday.
The seniors who were involved will not be able to participate in graduation ceremonies.
Bishop Ward will withhold the students' transcripts and diplomas until disciplinary requirements are completed.
"Catholic education calls us to balance accountability with mercy. Bishop Ward understood that criminal prosecution in this case carried life-altering legal consequences. In responding to this incident, the school intended to address the seriousness of the matter while also fostering responsibility, learning and personal growth in its students," Bishop Ward said in the press release.
Bishop Ward High School's commencement ceremony has been rescheduled for May 26.
"While the events of recent weeks have been difficult for the community, the school is looking forward to coming together to recognize this important milestone and celebrate the accomplishments of its graduating class," the school said.
Bishop Ward also expressed thanks to the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department for its assistance in the investigation.
The school and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas will continue with a formal internal review process.
ORIGINAL REPORT, Wednesday | The Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department has closed its investigation into vandalism at Bishop Ward High School.
A spokesperson with KCKPD said the department was informed Tuesday by the administration at Bishop Ward that they, along with the Archdiocese, have chosen to handle the response to the burglary internally and do not want to go forward with a criminal investigation.
KCKPD then decided to close the investigation at the school's request.
RELATED | Parents demand accountability after senior prank forces Bishop Ward graduation postponement
A KCKPD spokesperson said officers were dispatched just before 8 a.m. on Friday, May 8, on a reported burglary. The initial investigation revealed that several people, possibly students, entered the building after hours the day prior and vandalized several interior areas, causing property damage.
Leaders at Bishop Ward notified the community on May 8 that they had postponed commencement due to the vandalism investigation.
It is still unknown when the commencement will happen.
KSHB 41's Rachel Henderson received an email from a parent Wednesday stating that a meeting will be held Friday at 5 p.m. in the school's auditorium.
Bishop Ward staff "will be providing updates about the investigation, graduation, and next steps" during Friday's meeting.
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