Bullard ISD Comments on White Oak Mascot Incident

BULLARD � The Bullard ISD is following up on the alleged beating of the White Oak mascot. Bullard High School Assistant Principal Mike Richardson told our news partner KETK Thursday morning, “We are fully engaged in this investigation and will get to the bottom of it as soon as possible. This is all I am allowed to say at this time, but it will get taken care of.” The investigation was launched regarding an incident that occurred at the Bullard/White Oak varsity football game last Friday. The White Oak mascot, who is also a girl in the Roughneck Band, was allegedly beaten by a group of Bullard students.

KETK spoke earlier with White Oak ISD Superintendent Mike Gilbert and cheerleader sponsor Dana Mizell, both of whom claimed the incident took place. “The mascot, who is a female student and high school band member, was walking to the bathroom during the game to change into her band uniform so she could perform at halftime,” Mizell said. “She was met by a group of Bullard students who began harassing her, eventually causing injuries. She was so terrified, she did not even want to go back on the field.” The girl was in full mascot attire, so the students could not see who it was.

“There is a fan in the head of the mascot uniform that is used to keep the mascots cool,” said Gilbert. “When the students were hitting her and pulling the mascot head, the fan was hitting her directly in the face. She had a bloody nose, cuts, and bruises as a result.” The mascot was treated by paramedics at the game.

Bullard Police Captain Jeff Bragg said, “There has been an investigation launched in connection with this incident. We are trying to figure out who was and was not involved,” said Bragg. “But, because this is an on-going investigation, no other information will be released at this time.” Gilbert added, “I have full faith and confidence in the Bullard administration, this will be resolved in a timely matter.”