Officials investigating series of fights at Heritage High School

Photo via Heritage HS website

School and district officials are investigating a number of fights at Heritage High School this week that resulted in a brief school lockdown and 15 student suspensions, authorities said.

There were "a number of fights" at the school on Thursday, said Candace Reines, deputy superintendent of the Perris Union High School District. She said she is aware of at least one fight the day before and reports of fights in previous days are being investigated.

"They do appear to be racially motivated, involving Hispanics and Polynesians," Reines said. "We were notified there have been social media posts about people possibly bringing knives or guns to school. We take these threats seriously and are conducting a full investigation."

Reines said no weapons have been found on campus and that security was increased this morning. The Sheriff's Department had several units at the school Thursday and had presence there this morning.

On the Heritage High School Facebook page, principal Erika Tejada posted an update for parents this afternoon.

"As you are likely aware, there have been a number of fights at our school in recent days," Tejada wrote. "I am as disappointed as you are that these incidents have taken place. I want to assure you that these incidents are taken very seriously. All students who were involved in the altercations have been suspended, some pending the expulsion process. Students deemed eligible to return to campus will be required to attend re-entry meetings where they will be counseled alongside their parent or guardian. Returning students will also be placed on a strict behavior contract.

"Heritage High School does not tolerate fighting, bullying, or racially motivated incidents of any kind. The safety of students and staff will remain my number one priority as the principal of Heritage High School. Along with my administration team, we are looking at various methods to improve the ways in which we address student issues before they escalate to fights."

Reines said additional security measures will be considered as part of the investigation. She said she was on campus this morning and there was no evidence of further violence. Reines also said she viewed several videos of fights that have been posted on social media and officials are attempting to identify those who took and posted the videos and have them removed.

Parents who contacted Menifee 24/7 complained that they were not made aware of the problem until Thursday, even though it appears the incidents have been happening for several days. One parent said he was very upset after seeing the videos online and the number of followers they had, plus the marketing of "Samoans vs. Mexicans" sweatshirts on one site.

"I am upset about the lack of response of the school," the parent said. "This isn't a school, it's a warrior zone. Something must be done."