Statement Regarding Off-Campus Football Retreat Involving D.W. Daniel Students
July 27, 2025
The district leadership of the School District of Pickens County is aware of and investigating an altercation involving D.W. Daniel High School students during an off-campus football retreat held in Laurens County. The football retreat, though not during the school year, was a school-sponsored event, and we take matters involving student conduct at such events very seriously.
We are following our own district disciplinary policies, adhering to our athletic policy (based on South Carolina High School League guidelines), and also cooperating with Laurens County law enforcement through their legal process. We want to emphasize that we fully recognize the seriousness of an altercation of this nature. While we are committed to helping our students learn and grow from their mistakes, we are also ensuring that appropriate consequences are administered in line with district policy and the law.
We are aware that there are multiple factors and perspectives in this situation and remain committed to a thorough and fair review of this situation, as well as an investigation of the football program as a whole. While we are committed to helping all our students learn and move forward, we do not downplay the fact that the altercation occurred. Ensuring a safe and respectful environment is a top priority, and we are addressing this matter with the seriousness it deserves, again, in line with district policies and the law.
Due to federal student privacy laws (FERPA) that protect minors, we are unable to provide specific details about the students involved or the disciplinary actions taken. Our goal is to address this matter in a manner that promotes the long-term well-being of all students. We believe in turning challenging moments into opportunities for growth, and we will continue to work with families and the community to ensure that happens. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that every student can move forward, continue their education, and grow into responsible members of our community.
Statement from the SDPC Board of Trustees
July 29, 2025
The full Board of Trustees of the School District of Pickens County was made aware late last week that a very serious incident occurred at a school sponsored football camp at Presbyterian College earlier this month. Board members have now seen the disturbing video that is circulating on social media. This incident, which involved numerous student athletes, resulted in the injury of one student and criminal charges for several students. This matter is serious, not acceptable, and is being addressed by the administration and law enforcement.
The Board expects the administration not only to continue working cooperatively with Laurens County law enforcement, but also to continue internally investigating the matter from the top down to include staff, student, and programmatic issues. This incident will NOT be swept under the rug, and all appropriate corrective and disciplinary actions will be taken.
The students involved in this serious incident are all minors. As such, the Board cannot release specific details regarding disciplinary consequences based on federal law. However, all students involved in the situation will be disciplined, at both the school and athletic levels; sanctions may differ based on individual involvement. This matter remains under active investigation and outcomes likely will evolve as facts continue to be discovered.
The Board is appalled that this serious incident occurred and that a student was injured during a school-sponsored event. The Board remains committed to ensuring the safety of all students and athletes and will take the necessary steps to prevent a similar situation from occurring in the future.
— Board of Trustees, School District of Pickens County
