Late Nov. 21, the LaGrange Police Department reported a shooting that involved a 16-year-old LT student. According to the Suburban Life, the student was shot once in the leg following a verbal argument between two groups of people. Even though the investigation is still ongoing, there is no evidence that this altercation was a result of gang violence.

“I can neither confirm nor deny that it was gang related violence,” LT’s Police Liaison, Officer David Rohlicek said. “We do not have enough facts to support that claim.”

In light of recent occurrences, these altercations present the possibility of supposed gang violence that is taking place within the community involving LT students. Although the student that was wounded by the gunshot has not been confirmed to be involved in gang violence, the LaGrange Police Department and LT work closely to identify the violence that takes place.

“We take a pro-active approach when it comes to identifying and preventing violence,” LaGrange Police Chief Renee Strasser said. “Community member vigilance, pro-active policing methods and technological advancements have all played an important role in keeping our community safe.”

Student Assistant Program Coordinator Jeanne Widing works with students and the school to prevent, intervene and provide support to those involved in threatening situations. If a student is involved with violence, a team of counselors, assistant principals and social workers are arranged to consult and work with the student on a regular basis to determine what violations took place, she said.

“I think that LT has been successful at making sure the student has the appropriate support they need,” Widing said.

Each situation that involves a LT student is taken on by the school and police department as a case-by-case occurrence. Many of the altercations are handled based on the severity and are kept confidential.

“I think the most important thing is that we try to look at what the root cause is in the situation,” Widing said. “We try to look pass the consequence and see what we can do to help the student.”

Often the students that are suspended for violence-related issues are offered an alternative suspension program so they are given the opportunity to reduce their punishment. Social workers meet with the students to discuss decision-making strategies and are also given personal support. This program offers a more long-term approach to those who find themselves involved in violence.

“I would say that three fourths of the students that decide to take the alternative program come out with an understanding that they need to make changes to their behavior,” Widing said.

Chief Strasser, Officer Rohlicek and Widing have all agreed that over the past several years, students have done a better job with staying out of violent altercations and are more receptive to getting help in order to cope with their current situation.

“Over the years, many of the LaGrange Police Department’s high school resource officers have undoubtedly prevented potential violence by bringing students together in peer-mediated small groups to talk, ask questions and air their grievances,” Chief Strasser said.