VERO BEACH — A group of Vero Beach High School seniors is facing discipline after a weekend prank that school officials say veered close to vandalism, involving toilet paper, flipped furniture, and shaving cream.
The incident occurred on the main campus over the weekend, according to the Indian River County School District. School and district administrators learned of the damage early Monday morning. Crews quickly cleaned up the mess — toilet paper strewn about, chairs and tables overturned, and shaving cream applied in places — so classes could start on time with no disruption.
District officials described the behavior as vandalism, but no criminal charges are being pursued. The students will face consequences and may be required to pay restitution for cleanup.
“Early this morning, school and district administration were made aware that some of the actions taken approached the line between a prank and behavior that could be considered vandalism,” district spokeswoman Kyra Schafte said in a statement Monday.
School administrators have been in direct contact with the students involved and their families. The district said its goal is to hold the students accountable while avoiding long-term damage to their futures.
“Our commitment is to ensure students understand the seriousness of their actions while applying appropriate accountability without creating long-term negative impacts on their future,” the district statement continued. “Disciplinary measures will be enforced, and restitution will be required where appropriate.”
Vero Beach High School Principal Rachel Finnegan addressed parents directly in a message sent Sunday. She warned that pranks disrupting normal school operations would not be tolerated.
“Any prank that causes a disruption to the normal function of the school will not be tolerated,” Finnegan wrote. “You worked too hard to get to this point. Do not ruin your senior year over a poor decision.”
The district reiterated its commitment to keeping campuses safe and orderly.
“The district remains committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and orderly learning environment for all students and staff,” officials said.
No further details about the number of students involved or specific penalties have been released. The matter is still under review by school administrators.
