Schools

Principals Warn of Hazing in Malibu

School officials warn that girls are humiliated and harassed, while initiation for boys usually involves violence.

Malibu school officials warned parents to be on guard against the "initiation" of eighth graders over the next few weekends.

A letter signed by Principal Mark Kelly, MHS Assistant Principal Phil Wenker and Middle School Assistant Principal Wendy Wax Gellis was sent out Friday.

Here is the letter:

Find out what's happening in Malibuwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Dear Parents and Guardians of MHS 8th and 11th graders:

We would like to apprise you of a very important issue concerning 8th and 11th graders. We have heard that this weekend or possibly next weekend may be the time for a non-school and illegal activity referred to by the students as “initiation.” Malibu High School is not involved in initiation, nor do we support it on any level. Such an event is dangerous. Due to its hazing nature, it is against the Penal Code, Education Code and School Board Policies to participate or encourage such activities.

Find out what's happening in Malibuwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

We never know exactly if or where it will take place, but when it has happened, it has often been at one of our local beaches or at a gated residence. The 8th graders are often driven to the location by 11th graders. Initiation for girls has included such things as wearing bathing suits and being covered with food, cat food, or other sticky substances and then rolled in the sand ending in the ocean or getting hosed off. We have been told that there is lewd, inappropriate sexual conduct. Initiation for boys often involves violence, usually in the form of being paddled and physical fighting. Girls are humiliated and harassed. This is a dangerous situation, and we need your support in bringing this to a stop. This is not a rite of passage. It is dangerous and could have tragic results. Following the hazing, there may be a party involving alcohol hosted by 11th graders.  This, too, is extremely dangerous and against the law. When this takes place in a residence, the adults there or who own the property are legally responsible for what happens. 

Please be aware of where your child is at all times between now and the end of the year—particularly where they are after school and in the evenings. Call to check on them; be sure you know who they are with; check with other parents so that you are working together to support your children. Please be strong and do not give in when your children plead to attend.

Malibu Patch will have more on this story soon.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here