In a disturbing incident in Texas, thirteen middle school cheerleaders from Evans Middle School in Lubbock suffered first- and second-degree burns after reportedly being forced to perform physically demanding exercises on an outdoor track during peak afternoon heat. The punishment, allegedly issued by their coach as a disciplinary measure, has ignited outrage among parents and the public alike.
The Incident: Cheerleading Punishment Gone Wrong
According to local news outlet EverythingLubbock, the eighth-grade cheerleaders were ordered to perform exercises known as “crab walks” and “bear crawls” on a scorching outdoor track, allegedly as a result of a “disrespectful” cheer they performed at a recent football game. These exercises involve placing hands and feet on the ground, causing direct contact with the superheated track surface.
The incident reportedly took place around 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon when temperatures on the track reached approximately 125 degrees. The girls claimed they were forced to complete a one-mile course using these exercises, despite their protests that the track was painfully hot. As a result, several girls suffered burns severe enough to require medical attention, with at least one student being treated at the University Medical Center burn unit.
Parents React to the Alleged ‘Malicious Punishment’
The students and their parents have described the coach’s actions as intentionally harmful. One mother, Angel Thompson, shared that her daughter was in visible pain after cheer practice. “She showed me her hands, and I was shocked. They were covered in blisters,” Thompson recounted.
Another parent, speaking anonymously, described the punishment as “malicious” and emphasized that it was a calculated act. Parents were especially outraged that the school nurse saw some of the students but did not notify their families, leaving them in the dark about the severity of their children’s injuries.
Student Testimonies: ‘She Didn’t Care’
The cheerleaders themselves have spoken out about the coach’s indifference to their pain. One student reported that they voiced concerns to the coach, explaining that their hands were burning. However, the coach allegedly brushed off their complaints, insisting that they complete the exercise. Additionally, the coach reportedly threatened the cheerleaders, warning them about potential consequences for their roles on the team if they didn’t comply.
School District Responds to the Incident
Following the incident, the Lubbock Independent School District (ISD) responded to the growing outrage with a public statement. Officials confirmed that the coach has been placed on administrative leave pending a full investigation.
Thirteen cheerleaders at Evans Middle School in Lubbock, Texas are suffering from first and second-degree burns on their hands after they said their cheer coach made them perform “bear crawls” and “crab walks” on a hot outdoor track as punishment. https://t.co/GJUf9CqHdz pic.twitter.com/MWtOW1PB1W
— KTLA (@KTLA) October 12, 2024
The ISD’s statement read: “Lubbock ISD administration is aware of an incident at Evans Middle School involving a teacher’s disciplinary method that resulted in several students receiving burns on their hands. We are heartbroken over these events, as the safety and well-being of our students is our top priority. This type of incident does not reflect the standards or values of Lubbock ISD and Evans Middle School. We are addressing this matter with utmost urgency and are fully committed to investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The district further reassured parents that all disciplinary actions are thoroughly reviewed to ensure they align with Lubbock ISD’s standards and protocols, underscoring that they are committed to preventing such incidents in the future.
Legal and Social Media Reactions
The parents of the affected cheerleaders have expressed their determination to see justice served, and a police investigation is reportedly underway. Several parents are advocating for criminal charges against the coach, emphasizing that the punishment went beyond acceptable disciplinary measures.
PUNISHMENT LEADS TO BURNS: 8th graders had to go to the hospital for first and second degree burns after they say their cheer coach made them do bear crawls on a hot track as a punishment. @JuliannaWTv talks with the girls and @LubbockISD officials at 5 and 6 on @KAMCNews. pic.twitter.com/NfiD4C3oU5
— Lauren Matter (@LaurenMatter) October 11, 2024
Social media users also voiced their outrage, with many calling for the coach’s immediate dismissal and legal action. Posts on platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) condemned the coach’s actions, with some users highlighting the importance of holding educators accountable for the safety of students. The hashtag #JusticeForEvansCheerleaders quickly gained traction as people shared their concerns and expressed solidarity with the affected girls.
Understanding the Risks of Outdoor Punishments
This incident has raised questions about the dangers associated with outdoor disciplinary exercises, especially under extreme heat conditions. Direct contact with hot surfaces, such as tracks or concrete, can cause significant skin burns within seconds. According to the American Burn Association, temperatures on pavement and tracks can rise dramatically in sunny conditions, posing serious health risks, particularly to bare skin.
School officials and coaches are advised to consider weather conditions and surface temperatures when planning any physical activities for students. Furthermore, it’s essential for schools to implement safety protocols that prevent students from participating in activities that could result in injury, especially when temperatures soar.
Community Outcry and Calls for Accountability
The response from parents and the community highlights a larger conversation about appropriate disciplinary practices in school settings. While disciplinary measures are often necessary, it is crucial that they prioritize student safety and well-being. This incident serves as a reminder that disciplinary actions should never result in harm.
Evans Middle School cheerleaders suffer first-degree burns from coach's extreme 'punishment' https://t.co/WbAguFPQ3h pic.twitter.com/bIIQpk23UJ
— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) October 13, 2024
Parents have expressed frustration not only with the coach’s actions but also with the school’s response. Many feel that the lack of communication from the school about their children’s injuries was unacceptable. As the investigation continues, parents and the community are closely watching for any updates regarding potential disciplinary actions against the coach and steps the district will take to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Conclusion: Ensuring Safe and Supportive Learning Environments
This incident at Evans Middle School serves as a painful reminder of the responsibility educators have in ensuring safe and supportive environments for students. Disciplinary actions should focus on constructive outcomes rather than causing harm. The parents and community in Lubbock are rightfully demanding accountability, and the district’s actions moving forward will set an important precedent for the safety standards within schools.
As the investigation unfolds, the community is hopeful that Lubbock ISD will address the concerns raised, implement stronger safety protocols, and prioritize student welfare above all. In the end, every student deserves a safe and positive school experience free from harm.
