Police and school officials in Athens are investigating an allegation of child molestation that allegedly occurred at Clarke Middle School, according to the principal.

“Inappropriate, over-the-clothes touching between students” allegedly occurred at the school this semester, Principal Tad MacMillan said in a message to parents and guardians Thursday. He called the alleged incident “unfortunate.”

The announcement did not say who made the allegation.

The principal said discipline is being handled according to the Student Code of Conduct, and that an internal investigation is ongoing.

“Please know that student safety is our primary concern,” the announcement said. “Middle school can be a challenging time, and I ask that parents take this opportunity to have conversations with their children about respecting others’ physical space.”

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com