STOW, Ohio — The Stow-Munroe Falls City School District says it is investigating after some students allegedly showed up to a high school football game wearing blackface.
In an email sent to parents, Superintendent Tom Bratten and the Board of Education confirmed the incident occurred on Sept. 1 during the Bulldogs' 34-0 home loss to Jackson. The students apparently painted their faces black as part of their "spirit wear."
"The SMF City School District does not condone the use of blackface by anyone for any reason as it is patently offensive and reinforces historically racist stereotypes," the email read, in part. "The Administration is taking this incident very seriously and conducting a complete investigation."
3News checked the Stow-Munroe Falls High School Student Council's Facebook page and discovered the theme for the Jackson game was "Western Night," so it does not appear there would have been any ulterior reason for the students to have their faces painted black. There is a "Blackout" game scheduled for this season, but not until Oct. 20 against Twinsburg. SMF's normal colors are maroon and gold.
When reached by WKYC for more information, the district said it would be "unable to comment further" due to "student confidentiality concerns." Further details regarding the motives of the students involved are unknown at this time.
"The Jackson Local School District was unaware of the incident at the Sept. 1 football game at Stow-Monroe Falls," Jackson administrators told 3News regarding the matter. "However, we are supportive of the actions of the Stow-Monroe Falls' administrative team in making this behavior a teachable moment for students."