Quince Orchard staff member partied with kids openly drinking alcohol, administrator says

GAITHERSBURG, Md. (FOX 5 DC) - Quince Orchard officials are investigating with the assistance of police after a school staff member reportedly partied with students who were openly consuming alcohol on Thursday.

In a letter to parents, Principal Elizabeth Thomas said that students were openly drinking alcohol and participating in drinking games during the party.

Thomas said she was "deeply troubled" by the staff member's behavior at the private graduation party.

According to Thomas, the school has "taken appropriate action" in conjunction with the district and Montgomery County police.

She asked parents to be "vigilant when hosting celebrations involving students."

Complete letter:

Dear Quince Orchard families,

I am writing to inform you of an incident involving a member of our staff and to reiterate our shared expectations and goals to keep our students safe at all times, especially during prom and graduation season. The Quince Orchard community, in association with our PTSA, Booster club, NAACP, and other parent support organizations have established a shared vision around the safety and wellbeing of our students. This incident does not reflect our commitment to that shared vision.

It has been brought to our attention that on May 16, 2019 a Quince Orchard High School staff member attended a private graduation party where QOHS students openly consumed alcohol and participated in alcohol-related games. Although I am not able to share additional details related to this personnel matter, I want to assure you that we have taken the appropriate actions in conjunction with MCPS and Montgomery County Police. I am deeply troubled by the failure of this staff member to exercise appropriate judgment. I would like to remind our parent community of the essential need to be vigilant when hosting celebrations involving our students and to encourage all of us to reaffirm our pledge to keep all events involving our students alcohol and drug-free.

As always, our administrative team, counseling staff, teachers, and support professionals remain committed to the safety and well-being of our students and families. Thank you for your continued support and engagement.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Thomas (Beth)