The so-called "thong" issue

By Dale Endreson

I do not have access to closed testimony so this is based upon news reports.

I agree with the decision of the board. I believe that however we look at her motives, her action was not justified. Having said that, I place the majority of the problem on the administration and the school board. Apparently, there were problems at the same dance held a year before. If there were problems as stated by at least one school board member, then there are some basic questions that need answering. Where was the principal? Delegation of authority is fine and when used properly can help any organization run more efficiently, however, based upon last year's dance, I would have ensured that the principal would have been present. The other question that needs answering is "What action(s) did the board take after last year's dance? I can find no reference in the board minutes, which would include public testimony or perhaps comments by the administration. An informed board is a board that can take action and this appears not to be the case.

Another question that begs answering is what is the dress code? I searched for a copy of the dress code on the PUSD web site and could not find it. There was a paragraph in the August 2002 Mt. Carmel Messenger (Page 3) which states what the dress code is. I like other parents visit the campus from time to time to meet with counselors, teachers, or coaches and it is fairly obvious that what a lot of the students wear does not meet the dress code requirements. Why have a dress code if it is not enforced? Again, an informed and pro-active board would ask those questions.