Niles North High School in Skokie, Ill., has reinstated its varsity football program after conducting an investigation into hazing allegations.
WLS-TV reports that officials reinstated varsity football operations after the school's investigation determined no criminal conduct took place.
The school abruptly suspended varsity football operations on Sept. 15 after receiving reports of hazing. School officials notified Skokie police of the allegations and an investigation commenced.
School officials say the investigation did turn up some conduct warranting action, and they "will be taking appropriate action to address the conduct determined to have taken place."
Because of student confidentiality laws, officials declined to disclose specifics of the investigation or the actions uncovered by investigators.
"This last week has been a difficult one for our school community, but I am proud of the way we have come together," Niles North Principal James Edwards said in a message on the school's website. "As soon as our school became aware of the allegations, we were determined to act in the most proactive and thorough manner possible, and we are glad that we are able to reinstate the program today. We are thankful to our football parents, who offered their understanding and patience during this investigation, and to our staff members, who have supported our students throughout the week."
"We are grateful to the Skokie Police Department for their painstaking efforts to expedite their investigation during this difficult time," said Steven Isoye, superintendent of Niles Township High Schools District 219. "I want to commend Principal Edwards and his team at Niles North for immediately taking action and for carrying out the investigation so thoroughly and fairly."
