Athens, GA-

Some parents, teachers, and Athens Clarke County residents say that communication between administrators and the public about the alleged Cedar Shoals rape that took a month before the community knew about it took too long.

Some of those people spoke at a Board of Education meeting thursday night. Attendees complained about an overall lack of immediacy and urgency from the Board on matters concerning student assault.

Former Clarke County School District Parent Foster Daniel says he removed his daughter from Cedar Shoals after an assault resulted in a broken arm. According to Daniel, the Board needs to become more transparent with the community.

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2015 Cedar Shoals Salutatorian Alyssa Huberty says the administration is not the best at handling horrible situations like the rape. She says it is not surprising that it took a month before the community and even Cedar Shoals teachers knew of the rape.

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Board President Charles Worthy assured the audience that the Board has high concern for this situation and is treating it as a serious matter. He said since the case is currently under investigation, some answers are not available.

Associate Superintendent for District Services Ted Gilbert responded to parent concerns of the three suspects still attending school, stating “disciplinary action could and should have occurred earlier than it did… but we are taking steps to enhance the safety of Cedar Shoals high school.”

The rape details were not discussed at the meeting, but many people expressed the need of an open parent public forum to discuss what details are available.

Many people expressed disappointment with the school district officials handling of the situation, but they also voiced pride and support of the Athens Clarke County School District.

Reporter Jazmine Calhoun