Hamilton Township, PA — April 10, 2025
An investigation is underway at Hamilton Elementary School following an incident that occurred during the first-grade lunch period on Wednesday, April 9th. According to a letter sent home to parents, a staff member was observed placing blue painter’s tape on the mouths of several students.
Principal Mark Get addressed the situation in a letter dated April 10th, stating, “This is not a behavior that is expected nor directed by staff for any purpose, and I want to assure you that we are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness and urgency.” He emphasized that no students were injured, but acknowledged the seriousness of the action and affirmed that it would be dealt with in accordance with school policies and state law.
The incident was addressed immediately upon discovery, and a full investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the event.
One parent of a student involved shared a more nuanced perspective, saying their child described the situation as humorous and voluntary. “Everyone wanted tape — most even put it on themselves,” the parent wrote. “I do think it sounds horrible, however it’s not malicious like people are making it out to be.” The parent acknowledged that while no harm was intended, the behavior was inappropriate for a school setting and should have been avoided. “Now it looks like the children are being abused when that wasn’t the reality.”
Hamilton Elementary School officials reiterated that the safety and well-being of students remain the school’s top priority. Parents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Principal Get directly via email at ingetz@sburg.org.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.