Is bringing a cupcake to school with a toy soldier on it a “Violation?” This was the case in Caro, Michigan when a 9 year old, third grade student’s mother at Schall Elementary School brought in cupcakes for her son’s birthday topped with toy soldiers holding guns. The school principal decided that the army men were ‘inappropriate’ and removed them from each cupcake.
The child’s father, Mr. Fountain said the principal of Schall Elementary School called him personally and told him that dressing the cupcakes with soldiers was, in the principal’s words, “insensitive” considering recent gun-related tragedies. Fountain says the principal was referring to the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary in Connecticut. http://frontpagemag.com/2013/dgreenfield/school-confiscates-third-grader...
The school’s principal, Susan Wright, released the following statement.
“In the climate of recent events in schools we walk a delicate balance in teaching non-violence in our buildings and trying to ensure a safe, peaceful atmosphere. On one hand, there are those who advocate arming teachers, having armed security guards and creating a fortress of defense in our schools. On the other hand, there are those who feel that guns create fear in schools and we need to put solid security measures in place plus practice routines to be prepared in case an emergency should ever occur. Living in a democratic society entails respect for opposing opinions
Recently, a third grade boy brought cupcakes to school with plastic soldiers carrying weapons atop each one. These are toys that were commonplace in the past. However some parents prohibit all guns as toys. In light of that difference, the school offered to replace the soldiers with another item and the soldiers were returned home with the student.
In hindsight, one can always second guess a course of action. Schools walk a tightrope on many topics. By not permitting toy soldiers on cupcakes at school, no disrespect for our military or for the brave men and women who defend our right to have differences was intended. Our commitment is always to our children and creating a safe place for them to learn, grow and have respectful dialogues about their differences.” http://frontpagemag.com/2013/dgreenfield/school-confiscates-third-grader...
Have we gone too far as a nation in terms of what is appropriate for children to play with or is this a sensitive reaction to tragic events that occurred due to one of the most tragic massacres the country has experienced in Sandy Hook? It is your call. However, it gives me great comfort to know that people are “Now” opening up their eyes and becoming proactive where safety is concerned.
Dr. Sue
www.drsueandyou.com
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