I would disagree with this not being a problem. Obviously the latter is a problem, but I think the former would deter a school from accepting a kid. A sexual comment joke or not is completely unacceptable in my opinion. Many middle school boys make these jokes but plenty do not. I would not want a kid that makes sexual jokes living in a school with my kid. It’s one thing if it’s just class, but at a boarding school that’s a big no no. Sexual harassment is one of the worst things that commonly happens in middle schools. This kid is going to be away from home - we have to think about that also. I would not feel comfortable sending my son away if he had gotten suspended over a sexual joke. Most public schools (in my area at least) would just give a slap on the wrist. A detention at most. Suspension is another level.
If elite boarding schools are accepting kids who get in trouble for things of a sexual nature, maybe we should consider there is a big problem with the admissions process as a whole. 10% acceptance rate and you’re accepting kids who get suspended for making someone feel that uncomfortable? You seriously couldn’t find a kid with good grades, sports, music, etc who is a good person that raises others up? Do better. The problem starts with the adults and the system.