Middle school changes dismissal protocol after brawl injures staff member

CHARLOTTE — A brawl caught on video at Ranson Middle School during dismissal on Tuesday forced the school to change its protocol when releasing students.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools said the large fight involved students and their families and that a staff member was injured in the altercation at the north Charlotte school.

In the video, students and some family members can be seen punching and pushing each other.

[ALSO READ: CMS says student brought gun on bus to Ranson Middle School in north Charlotte]

Moving forward, all students who are being picked up must stay inside the building until their parent or guardian arrives. Drivers in the carpool line will also have to stay in their cars throughout the pickup process.

Parents and guardians will also have to show ID and their child’s name and grade level. The person picking up must be on the student’s emergency contact list.

The school’s principal said they’re doing this to add another layer of safety because of what happened.

A mother at pick-up on Thursday said she didn’t know about the incident until she saw it on TV. She said the school needs to do more.

“It’s frustrating. It’s sad. More needs to be done. They need a better plan put in place as far as safety. They let the kids do whatever they want to do,” parent Monique Hope said.

CMS officials said the fight is under investigation, and the school district sent Channel 9 the following statement on Wednesday:

“The safety and security of our staff and students is a top priority. An altercation involving students and family members occurred during dismissal yesterday. A staff member was injured during the incident, which is still being investigated. The school has increased safety measures for the dismissal process. These are outlined below in a message sent to families today.

“Good evening Raider Families.

“This is Principal Brown with an important update regarding afternoon dismissal. Beginning tomorrow, all car riders will remain inside until parents or guardians arrive. Parents or guardians will need to provide proof of identification and the scholar’s name and grade level. Drivers will need to drive to the end of the car pool line, following the directions of staff members in the car pool lot, remaining in vehicles at all times. Please ensure you are on the scholar’s emergency contact list. We are asking that you exercise patience as this process will take additional time, but is being put in place for additional safety measures. Thank you for your continued support. Additionally, tonight’s PTSA interest meeting has been rescheduled for a later date. Stay tuned for additional information. Have a great evening.”

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