Read the superintendent's message on flag controversy
Oct 8, 2008
San Benito High School students Jared Ballinger, left, and Abraham Enriquez stand near the flag. Ballinger says he was advised to remove his flag while driving a truck.
San Benito High School Superintendent Stan Rose sent the following message to the school community:
October 3, 2008
An Open Letter to the Community:
As those in the high school community know, a recent notice sent to parents and students prohibited some articles of clothing newly identified by law enforcement as gang-related apparel. Subsequent to that notice, one of our own students was told incorrectly by an employee that he must remove a T-shirt that contained a depiction of the American Flag. A local news agency reported that the high school had banned the American Flag. Now, we are working to correct an inaccuracy. It is a particularly egregious inaccuracy to those families who have members who served in defense of our country. I recall my own family's story and the stories of others during the past couple of days, and I am reminded of the American Flag's importance in their lives.
I hope the community understands that, in enforcing our current dress code, one that prohibits gang-related apparel, administration did not identify the American Flag as an article banned from the campus. In the past, when use of different flags attempted to create division and an unsafe school environment, high school staff at that time took steps to help students understand the respectful display of the American flag, as well as respect for other flags. That action, years ago, has nothing to do with this current situation.
We honor all cultures at our high school, and work hard ensure that all of our students achieve the kind of success that leads to college, career, and responsible citizenship. Our students' achievement, as exemplified by the growth in our Academic Performance Index-growth that outpaced other comprehensive high schools throughout the tri-county area - is evidence that our students are thriving. We also honor our American Flag, and it is not banned from our campus.
Finally, we work hard every day to ensure that all students are placed in a safe school environment, an important pre-condition to effective learning.
Thank you all for supporting your community's children by supporting the school in which they learn.
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