Story Archive

I Like to Be in America

Jackson Hole (Wyo.) High School changed its traditional homecoming theme from “America Day” to “College Day”. “I’m charged with looking at a school with 660 kids,” Principal Scott Crisp said, “and I have to ensure that all those kids feel part of a student body.” But many parents and students protested the theme change, and chose to don red, white, and blue in various combinations. “It’s homecoming week and our school administration thought it was too ‘offensive’ to have an America Pride Day!” parent Ted Dawson complained in a Facebook post. “I don’t care what race or religion you are, you live here, benefit from the schools, enjoy tax benefits or whatever — your [sic] an American or at least you better be!” Some students saw the new theme of College Day as more marginalizing. “There’s a lot of kids here that can’t afford college,” Harry Burt, 17, said. “College is not an option for them. It’s more discriminatory.” Henry Jones, 17, who is considering trade school over college, wasn’t offended. “I would have just worn my regular clothes,” he said. (MS/Jackson Hole News and Guide) ...Next year’s theme: Regular Old Clothes Day.