MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Waterford Union High School and Rufus King High School released a joint statement Friday, May 16, after an investigation confirmed racially charged behavior toward student-athletes at a track invitational earlier this month. 

A findings report released by the Waterford Union High School District says the school hosted a track meet on May 7, during which multiple allegations of racist behavior toward Rufus King High School athletes were reported. The allegations include racial slurs, the mocking of students' names, imitation of gang signs, and "derogatory behavior by both students and event officials."

The district says an internal investigation was launched on May 8, including the reviewal of more than 40 interviews, video footage, written statements, and communication logs. Milwaukee Public Schools, law enforcement, legal counsel, and public relations advisors collaborated with the Waterford Union High School District throughout the process. 

According to the findings report, instances of "racially charged comments," were confirmed, as well as the mimicking of gang signs by middle schoolers, referring to Rufus King student-athletes as "gangsters," and the intentional mispronunciation of Rufus King students' names by event volunteers. The report also says a WIAA-sanctioned meet official reportedly used "racially insensitive language" toward a Rufus King athlete. 

The joint statement, released by Milwaukee Public Schools and Waterford Union High School, says in part:

"Together, Waterford Union High School and Rufus King High School acknowledge the seriousness of these events. We stand united in condemning all forms of racism, discrimination, and bias. No student should feel targeted, disrespected, or unsafe while representing their school."

It goes on to say a "range of immediate and long-term actions have been initiated to ensure accountability, support for those affected, and a commitment to meaningful change."

Waterford Union High School leaders met with Rufus King High School administrators, coaches, and student athletes on May 13 to formally apologize.