Investigation into Testosterone Display at Graham High School

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is looking into claims surrounding a Pride Month display at Graham Kapowsin High School, where there were reports of vials of testosterone being included in the exhibit.

Deputies responded to a call on Monday regarding the display of what was labeled a “controlled substance” on school grounds. This came to light after an image emerged online, which allegedly showed a vial of testosterone. The school district indicated they had pinpointed the individual responsible for adding it.

“We received multiple reports about vials of testosterone placed in hallways as part of the Pride exhibit. Some of these vials seemed to contain liquid,” noted the sheriff’s office in a statement.

Upon their arrival, officers were informed by school leadership about their recent awareness of the vial’s presence. According to the administration, they had not authorized the addition of the testosterone vial to the display.

Authorities also mentioned that the student who contributed the vial had been identified. “Testosterone is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under federal law due to its potential for misuse and dependency,” the statement further explained.

Officers removed the vial for examination as a part of their ongoing inquiry.

Brandi Kruse, a journalist, shared her findings of the Pride display, amplifying the issue through social media. She indicated in her post that an image depicted a transparent container with multiple testosterone vials.

Sheriff Keith Swank acknowledged Kruse’s post, confirming that an investigation by the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office would take place.

The director of communications for the Bethel School District, Douglas Boyles, informed that the vials’ display was “completely unauthorized.” He elaborated that they had learned of the situation when alerted to an exhibit featuring an empty testosterone vial along with others containing unknown liquids.

“We’ve identified who was responsible for placing the vials in the display without approval,” Boyles said, adding that the district is reviewing its protocols for monitoring exhibits.

“Our main priority remains the safety and respect of all students,” he emphasized.

The school district did not respond in time for this publication. Reactions on social media included strong condemnation concerning the display.

One commenter expressed disbelief about requiring extensive approvals just to use an inhaler at school while testosterone was so casually included. Others voiced outrage, calling the promotion of such substances to minors inappropriate and unacceptable.

Testosterone is often used in masculinizing hormone therapy, which helps develop male characteristics, such as a deeper voice and increased muscle mass. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration categorizes testosterone as a Schedule III drug, indicating it poses a moderate risk for physical and psychological dependence.