South River, New Jersey, August 31, 2025
News Summary
A senior prank at South River High School led to classes being canceled as students caused significant disruption on campus. The prank involved moving furniture, emptying the gym, and toilet-papering hallways. Although no damages were reported, the school opted to close for the day due to the extent of the mess. Approximately 50 students identified as participants will face disciplinary actions, including fines and community service. Reactions within the community are mixed, with some supporting the school’s response while others view the prank as harmless.
South River, New Jersey – A senior prank at South River High School led to the cancellation of classes as students unleashed chaos across the campus with extensive mess and disruption. The prank included the rearrangement of furniture, emptying the basketball gym, covering hallways with toilet paper, and creating disarray in classrooms.
South River Mayor Peter Guindi reported that while nothing was broken or stolen, significant disruption occurred as tables and desks were moved around. Originally, the school planned a delayed opening, but due to the prank’s extensive nature, it decided to close for the day, deeming the incident to have gone “too far.” Following the prank, an investigation has been initiated, although no criminal charges are currently being pursued against the students involved.
The South River School District is preparing to impose disciplinary actions on approximately 50 students identified as participants in the prank. Penalties will include a $150 fine, five hours of community service, and exclusions from two major senior traditions: the senior barbecue and the senior clap out. Additionally, students involved will receive an empty diploma folder at graduation until they complete their community service obligations. Students and parents must sign a graduation participation contract by the following Monday to agree to the penalties.
Superintendent of Schools Sylvia Zircher indicated that this year’s senior prank deviated from previous traditions, which typically involved students seeking prior approval from school officials before executing such an event. Surveillance footage was utilized to identify the students involved, as outlined by Principal Jamie Kinard in a letter to parents regarding the incident.
Reactions to the prank and subsequent school response have been mixed within the community. Some seniors have expressed dissatisfaction with the punishments, particularly emphasizing the role of school spirit and their desire to partake in traditional year-end events. Conversely, other students view the prank as harmless and argue that the school’s reaction has been excessive.
Classes at South River High School are set to resume the day after the incident, as the school community reflects on the implications of senior pranks and their growing restrictions regarding student creativity and expression.
FAQ Section
What did the senior prank at South River High School involve?
The prank involved rearranging furniture, emptying the basketball gym, covering hallways with toilet paper, and creating disruption in classrooms.
What consequences are students facing for participation in the prank?
Approximately 50 students will be fined $150, required to complete five hours of community service, and banned from two senior traditions. They will also receive an empty diploma folder at graduation until community service is completed.
Why did the school decide to close for the day?
The school initially planned a delayed opening but decided to cancel classes entirely due to the severe disruption caused by the prank, which was deemed excessive.
Is there an investigation into the prank?
Yes, an investigation has been initiated to look into the incident, but no students are facing criminal charges at this time.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | South River High School, New Jersey |
| Nature of Prank | Rearranged furniture, emptied gym, toilet-papered hallways |
| Class Cancellations | School closed due to disruption |
| Disciplinary Actions | $150 fine, community service, bans from senior traditions |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing, no criminal charges |
| Community Reaction | Mixed responses regarding the harmlessness of the prank |
| Classes Resumed | Day after prank incident |
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Additional Resources
- ABC7: South River High School Seniors Say Punishment for Prank is Harsh
- My Central Jersey: South River High School Closed After Senior Prank
- NBC New York: Extreme Senior Prank at New Jersey High School
- Wikipedia: South River, New Jersey
- Google Search: South River High School Senior Prank
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