September 17, 2021
Dear LOLHS families,
For those that follow local, state and national news you have seen that a recent TikTok trend is currently widespread throughout the country. The so-called “devious licks” challenge encourages students to take items from the school and in many cases destroy property. Most of the vandalism has occurred in bathrooms. Unfortunately, our school has not been spared of this craze.
During the last week, staff members have reported items damaged in bathrooms and hallways, and some school and personal property are missing. This is especially heartbreaking to us since our school recently completed a 30-million-dollar renovation to modernize the entire building. Items that are being taken or destroyed are like new. Having been the principal at LOLHS since 2009, I take extreme pride in this school and hope that other stakeholders feel the same way. This sickening behavior needs to stop.
I encourage you to have a conversation with your student over the weekend about making good choices. The vast majority of our students would never be involved in this type of inappropriate behavior; however, there are some that think this is just a funny game. To be clear, we will not tolerate this type of disrespect to the school. Consequences for students that participate may include loss of privileges, suspension, request for placement at an alternative school, or the recommendation for expulsion from Pasco Schools. Additionally, since vandalism and theft are unlawful a referral to our School Resource Officer can also occur.
We actively promote “see something, say something” when it comes to school safety. If your student has information about others who are doing these things, encourage them to anonymously come forward with information to a school official. I do appreciate you help to address this concern. We have an outstanding community that prides itself on having a high school that annually is ranked one of the best schools in America. With your help we can continue this tradition of excellence.
If you have any questions, please email me at fmellin@pasco.k12.fl.us or call the school (813)794-9400.
Ric Mellin – Principal
