Monday, October 8, 2012

Dances and What Should Be Happening

High School dances are a part of the entire experience.  They are memories we all have.  For some those are fantastic and for some miserable.  We would like to think we are providing opportunities for wonderful memories and treasured moments in the four-year experience.

For some of our students the dances are not all that much fun.  Too much bump and grind - too much body pushing and pounding.  Many of our female students are complaining about feeling pressured into a situation they are not comfortable with and do not appreciate.  However, at 14 or 15 how do you go against your friends (?) and peers.  Many of our males express surprise at what they feel is an expectation and are not comfortable with the pack but don't want to left out.

These overly sexual moves are not necessary in a public setting.  The majority of the students at a school activity want to have fun and enjoy the experience with their friends.  They are not interested in ruining some one's reputation or being part of such immature behaviors.

Families need to have the discussion with son/daughter.  How does one go against the norm?  It should be easy in a public setting but moving out of harm's way is a learned skill.  In addition to dances there will be parties and other less public events.  How does one maintain one's own self-respect when it seems to be the norm to do other things?

Southwest High School Dances are for family entertainment and fun.  They will not be hampered by a few who have little self respect and self control.  Any mother/father who wishes to should be able to attend the dance and be comfortable with what he/she witnesses.  No, we do not need to return to the days of yesterday but we do need to eliminate the sexual pressures and overtones.

Children should have fun.  The Southwest High School dances will be for the establishment of positive memories for all students.

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