Chaos Erupts at South River High School Due to Senior Prank

A messy school hallway post-prank with furniture moved and toilet paper scattered

South River, New Jersey, August 31, 2025

News Summary

A senior prank at South River High School led to chaos, prompting the cancellation of classes. Approximately 50 students rearranged furniture and created a mess, resulting in disciplinary actions including fines and community service. The school management decided to close for the day, stressing the seriousness of the situation, although there were no criminal charges. Community reactions have varied, with some considering it a harmless tradition while others believe it undermines school decorum.

South River, New Jersey – A senior prank at South River High School led to the cancellation of classes due to extensive chaos and disruption caused by the actions of approximately 50 students. The prank included actions such as rearranging furniture, emptying the basketball gym, covering hallways with toilet paper, and leaving classrooms in disarray.

South River Mayor Peter Guindi confirmed that, despite the mess, there were no reports of broken or stolen property; however, significant disruption was caused as tables and desks were moved throughout the school. Initially, school officials planned a delayed opening but ultimately decided to close the school for the day, citing the scale of the prank as “too far.”

In the aftermath of the incident, an investigation was launched, resulting in no criminal charges against the students involved. Nevertheless, the South River School District is preparing to implement disciplinary action against the students identified as participants in the prank. Each of the approximately 50 students facing consequences will incur a $150 fine, complete five hours of community service, and be banned from two senior traditions: the senior barbecue and the senior clap out. To further emphasize the seriousness of their actions, participating students will receive an empty diploma folder at graduation until they fulfill the community service requirement.

Students and parents have until the following Monday to sign a graduation participation contract, which confirms their acceptance of the penalties. Superintendent of Schools Sylvia Zircher noted that this year’s senior prank differed from previous years, highlighting the lack of prior approval sought from school officials before undertaking the prank.

Despite the school’s strict disciplinary measures, some seniors expressed their dissatisfaction with the penalties, arguing that the prank was meant to foster school spirit and camaraderie among the students. They voiced their desire to partake in traditional end-of-year activities without repercussions.

Principal Jamie Kinard informed parents that surveillance footage was instrumental in identifying the students involved in the prank. Community reactions have been mixed, with some students perceiving the prank as harmless and viewing the school’s response as excessive. Classes at South River High School are scheduled to resume the day following the incident, returning to normalcy after the disruption.

Summary of Key Details

  • Incident occurred at South River High School
  • Approximately 50 students involved in senior prank
  • Prank involved moving furniture and creating mess
  • No criminal charges filed against students
  • Disciplinary actions include fines and community service
  • School planned an initial delayed opening but decided on a full closure

Class Resumption

Classes at South River High School are set to resume the day after the incident, as the school management aims to restore order following the prank disruption.

Community Perspectives

Responses from the community have varied widely. Some students regard the prank as a harmless tradition, while others argue for the importance of maintaining school decorum and adherence to established regulations.

FAQ Section

What was the senior prank at South River High School?

The prank involved rearranging furniture, emptying the basketball gym, and covering hallways with toilet paper, leading to significant disruption but no damage or theft.

What disciplinary actions are the students facing?

Approximately 50 students will incur a $150 fine, perform five hours of community service, and lose the privilege to attend two senior traditions.

How did the school respond to the prank?

The school closed for the day instead of the planned delayed opening due to the extent of the disruption caused by the prank.

When will classes resume?

Classes are set to resume the day after the incident.

Are students facing criminal charges for the prank?

No, students are not facing any criminal charges related to the prank.

Key Features of the Event

Feature Description
Location South River High School, New Jersey
Participants Approximately 50 seniors
Actions Taken Rearranging furniture, covering hallways with toilet paper, creating classroom chaos
Disciplinary Measures $150 fine, community service, bans from senior traditions
School Response Closed for the day instead of delayed opening
Community Reaction Mixed feelings on the prank and its consequences

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER

PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.

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