Let Katelynn Walk

Let Katelynn walk

To: Tom Bean ISD School Board Members

We are truly surprised and disappointed in our school's school board vote to keep one of its respectable students from walking the stage at graduation with her fellow classmates. This student has been involved in Tom Beans athletic program, has maintained good grades, as well as good behavior throughout her time enrolled in the school. She has put forth just as much work and effort, if not more, than any of her fellow classmates to finish her high school education. When many students in her situation often simply drop out of school and give up, she has chosen to persevere and even plans to continue her education by attending college in the fall. Her message by walking that stage is a positive one, one that shows no matter what happens if you are dedicated enough you can be successful.

Just because Katelynn happens to be noticeably showing, she cannot have the same opportunity, that she would have if she were to have had her baby before the graduation ceremony. In the past, Tom Bean has allowed students walk the stage as mothers, but not mothers-to-be. How is that message any different? The message the schools students are getting from this policy is that the school permits discrimination. The school is treating Katelynn differently because of a temporary situation, therefore discriminating against her. There are two other students in the school that are pregnant, but are they allowed to walk because one is married and one is not noticeably showing?

If you take away Katelynns right to walk the stage with her graduating class, you take away what little faith your students have in the school systems justice.

We ask that you reconsider this policy for future generations and make an exception for Katelynns graduation. Please do not take away one of the most memorable days of her life.