Parchment sets new rules for football stadium after ‘altercations’

PARCHMENT, Mich. (WOOD) — Parchment High School is rolling out new rules for people going to watch football games, requiring students to show ID or have their parents with them to get into the stadium.

The procedures announced Tuesday are a response to “altercations” at last week’s game that led to the stadium being evacuated.

In a letter (PDF) to the school community, Parchment High School Principal Craig Thornton explained that students must now present their student ID, present a physical ticket or have their parent with them to get into the stadium. Once inside, they’ll have to either stay in the stands for the entire game or be with a parent at all times. Adults will also have to be prepared to show photo ID upon request. Additionally, bags and backpacks are now banned in the stadium.

Thornton’s letter said the new rules were “designed to ensure that our events remain safe, enjoyable, and respectful for everyone involved” and thanked everyone for their cooperation.

Last week’s fights involved students and adults who Parchment School District leaders said do not appear to have been members of their community. At one point, the district said, someone yelled the word “gun.” Police and school staff de-escalated the situation and evacuated the stadium. No gun was found and no one was hurt.

Last week, the Comstock Public Schools superintendent said three Comstock students are believed to have been involved in at least one altercation. He said an investigation was underway.

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