Shoe Ins and Outs

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You might think that anyone who worked hard enough to earn a high school diploma would be a shoo-in at graduation.

Not so at Hahnville High School in Boutte, Louisiana.  When Daverius Peters showed up with footwear that was slightly off code, he was barred from joining his classmates.  With family already in the stands, plus a $138.50 cap and gown already paid for, this letter-of-the-law judgment would have been a gross misinterpretation of justice.

First of all, what’s more important: an airtight shoe code or a student’s chance to shine?  Secondly, what if a student’s family simply couldn’t afford all of the required attire?  Should economic status ban some from publicly reaping the well-deserved fruits of their labor?

In this case, a teacher stepped in and lent Daverius his dress shoes.  The kindness of one individual saved the day.  Yet basic rights should not have to depend upon last-minute scrambling.  They should be guaranteed by rules that are not just firm, but also fair. 

Resources

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/good-news/a-shoe-policy-almost-kept-a-high-school-senior-from-walking-at-his-graduation-then-a-teacher-stepped-in/ar-AAKBWcU?ocid=uxbndlbing 

Copyright June 4, 2021 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved