LGSD Press Release October 2, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Geoge Mendoza, Superintendent
541-663-3202

October 2, 2026

La Grande School District Statement Regarding Hazing Incident Involving JV Football Team

LA GRANDE, Ore. — La Grande School District administration is investigating a hazing incident involving members of the La Grande High School Junior Varsity Football team that reportedly occurred during the team’s return trip to La Grande from Nyssa, Oregon, on Monday, September 28, 2026.

The District takes this matter seriously. Student safety, appropriate conduct, and accountability are priorities for La Grande School District, both on our school campuses and during school-sponsored activities and travel.

The district has been working with students and families involved in the incident, the Union County Sheriff Office, the Union County District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Human Services, the Oregon Department of Education, as well as all other appropriate state agencies as the matter continues to be investigated. 

Because this matter involves students and is an active investigation, the District will not comment publicly on individual students or provide details that could compromise the investigation or student privacy.

We expect all students representing La Grande School District to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects our expectations for respect, responsibility, and appropriate behavior. Those expectations apply throughout all school activities, including athletic events and team travel.