BOXFORD, Mass. -- Several middle school students accused of sexually harassing a classmate have been suspended.
Five 13-year-old boys at Masconomet Middle School were given 10-day suspensions after a fellow eighth grader came forward Wednesday, telling her guidance counselor she had been harassed several times.
The Masconomet Regional School superintendent said the boys made repeated comments and there was inappropriate touching on one or two occasions.
Some parents are debating the punishment.
"I think it's ridiculous. I think 13 is way too young. I think you pull the kid aside and you talk to them and you don't make a big deal about it," said Jason Savarino, a parent.
"I would say the 10 day suspension is NOT inappropriate. I think kids know when they attend school there are inappropriate things that can be said and can't be said," said Cheryl Nelson, a parent.
Police launched their own assault investigation.
"I believe police should be involved," said Barry Hathaway, a parent.
While no criminal charges have been filed, the teens' parents have all been contacted.
"I think parents have the responsibility to let children know what's appropriate or not," said Steve Ramos, a parent.
School Superintendent Anthony Bent said, "These are issues that are highly charged in our society that can rock the foundation of a child's life and education. hope they can learn from this."
The school superintendent also said the victim has been talking to a counselor and receiving proper support. He said no one else has come forward with any other complaints.
