Former Mazama student alleges sexual assault; teachers and residents urge district action on student behavior

At the Nov. 20 meeting of the Klamath County School District Board of Directors, former Mazama student Kelsie Anderson told the board she was sexually assaulted and said she felt "failed by school and district administration." Anderson identified herself as a former Mazama student and recent Klamath Union graduate and urged the board to address what she called long-standing, unaddressed issues at the school.

Multiple speakers during public comment reinforced concerns about student behavior and staff safety. KCSD teacher Nicole Mills submitted a statement and asked the board to adopt a clear policy or process to address behavior incidents; the packet will include her survey responses. Community member Ron Schmeck said his wife, a Peterson Elementary teacher, has been hospitalized after repeated injuries caused by a student and called for prevention measures.

Parent Jake Scott told the board he filed a complaint about a Mazama teacher that was investigated and found to be founded, and he said a records request produced internal emails documenting years of concerns he believes went unaddressed. Director of Human Resources Jamie Ongman addressed Anderson directly and offered to contact her about her experience, noting the matter involves Title IX concerns. Board member Marc Staunton asked Superintendent Glen Szymoniak for a timeline on next steps. Szymoniak said he will update the board on plans to address student behavior concerns prior to winter break and will send a summary of plans addressing other concerns prior to Thanksgiving.

The commenters requested both immediate safety measures for staff and students and clearer complaint and investigation processes. The board did not take formal action during the public comment period but set expectations for administrative follow-up.