DeKalb School Board Lifts Marching Band Suspension

There is good news for band members in DeKalb County public schools.

DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Atkinson announced she is lifting the suspension of marching band activity during a news conference on Wednesday.

For some high school band members, it's especially good news. Some were worried their scholarships could have been jeopardized if they actually didn't get to play in band activities.

Atkinson says she wants to foster a positive attitude and a positive leaing environment in bands. But she says the rules are clear – there will be a zero tolerance policy for hazing.

"We will have a zero tolerance police for any inappropriate behavior," said Atkinson.

The county's 19 public high school bands can now resume performances at athletic events and other school functions. They had been banned from doing so since December 14.

DeKalb School District spokesperson Walter Woods says they want to make sure the adults responsible for band -- principals, band directors and associates – are following school policy.

He says a month long investigation has uncovered troubling signs of inappropriate behavior, including harassment and intimidation, by a few band directors. The names of the directors and the schools were not named.

Woods says no disciplinary action has been taken against the band directors. He says the investigation is continuing.

According to Woods, any wrong-doing found during the course of the investigation will be tued over to authorities and that discipline will be swift.