Berlin’s Hiland Hawks Basketball Program Fails to Change Culture: Students Still Facing Serious Bullying Despite New Policies

Still so many reported cases!

December 6, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 4, 2026

Berlin, Ohio: Two years after the district implemented new policies to prevent bullying in Hiland’s basketball program, parents and alumni say little has changed. Students reportedly continue to face serious bullying.

A concerned parent, speaking anonymously, said bullying remains widespread. They added that administration and coaches have not enforced policies effectively.

The parent, in a said reporting systems are confusing, making it difficult for students and families to raise concerns.

They emphasized that high school sports should focus on building integrity and character, not just winning games.

They also said the program has become increasingly closed off. Students and families struggle to get support, and accountability is lacking.

“I’m speaking up because from what I know, I’m disappointed that the necessary changes haven’t been made, and I hope renewed attention will lead to real accountability and a healthier environment for all the students involved,” the parent concluded.

Adam Barnett, a local resident, criticized the district for prioritizing legal protections over student welfare.

“When you take a deep look at the school district they spend the taxpayers’ money on a Fortune 500 lawyer. That says everything anyone needs to know,” he wrote.

He also blamed the whole system and claimed they don’t care about their Players. Adam added,

“They could not care less about the children. Their only concern is protecting their personal collective backsides and sweeping anything and everything under the rug. I recently FOIA requested any and all Non Disclosure Agreements they have on or in any format. They categorically denied having ANY at all. I know this for a fact to be false and plan to take the appropriate actions very soon through the court system. At the rate they are going they will need to pass another levy or two in order to fund their legal expenses. They are already losing students left and right and rightfully so.”

Other community members said bullying has long been a problem within the Hiland Basketball program.

Read More:

Several Complaints from Other Parents Too!

Crowe Fiffer said it was serious during their time at Hiland. Marilyn Kaufman called the school “the worst, by far, when it came to bullying and nothing was ever done about it.”

Several commenters noted former coach Perry Reese “would never let that slide,” suggesting past leadership handled incidents more decisively.

Pamela Porter and other residents expressed sympathy for affected students. They also criticized the lack of transparency in reporting and disciplinary measures.

Some community members fear legal measures or nondisclosure agreements might silence families.

Parents and alumni are calling for independent oversight. They want consistent enforcement and protections for students who report bullying.

They argue that sports should foster safety, respect, and character, not fear or intimidation.

Despite the new policies, many say meaningful action has been missing. Trust in the program has eroded.

Community members warn that without cultural change, complaints will continue, and students may leave the district.

They stress that high school athletics should allow students to compete, grow, and learn without fear of harassment.

Residents say accountability, transparency, and student safety must guide the district. Otherwise, bullying will remain a serious problem.

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Anish Koirala has loved sports since he was a kid. He grew up playing basketball and soccer, and that passion stayed with him over the years. Today, Anish works as a writer and editor, sharing his knowledge and love for the game through articles and stories. He uses his playing experience to make his writing clear, thoughtful, and fun to read.

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