An investigation has been launched into reports that fans of New Trier High School's football team made racist and homophobic comments toward members of the Evanston Township High School Marching Band during Friday's rivalry game between the two schools at Northwestern University's new Ryan Field.

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Dr. Marcus Campbell, superintendent of Evanston Township High School District 202 and Dr. Peter Tragos, New Trier Township High School District 203 superintendent, released a joint statement, saying they take the reports seriously and  recognize the concern they have caused students, families, and our broader communities. 

 Standing against racism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination is central to the missions of both districts,  the statement read, in part.  We have a responsibility to uphold these values through our actions and to teach our students to do the same. Every student deserves to be treated with respect and dignity in our classrooms, in the stands, and wherever students represent their schools. 

Specific details about what was reported were not included in the statement. The superintendents said both administrations are working closely to investigate the reports, determine next steps and encouraged anyone with firsthand information to share it with school administrators.

 No student should leave an event where they came to perform, compete, or support their peers feeling that their dignity or belonging were demeaned,  the statement added.  Both districts are committed to addressing these reports with the seriousness they deserve, upholding our shared values, and ensuring that respect, dignity, and accountability remain fundamental expectations in our school communities. 
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