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Dear Paschal Community,
These last few days have provided us an opportunity to reflect on the American Constitution and the rights it provides. A very organized group of pro-life advocates has been exercising its right of religious expression on the public sidewalk outside our school.
Such expressions of opinion are guaranteed by our laws. Of course, the free exercise of expression must be in accordance with certain rules of order including not disrupting the learning environment or interfering with the rights of others. I want you to know that my staff and I are working very closely with District officials to monitor this situation and ensure those lines are not crossed.
In the movie American President, actor Michael Douglas, playing the part of president, delivered a speech that always resonates with me. He said:
America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship; you have to want it bad, because it is going to put up a fight. It's going to say, you want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, whose standing center stage advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a life time opposing at the top of yours.
As United States citizens, we have the chance to see our rights in action every day. Paschal High School is a microcosm of our society and is not exempt from these situations. However, we can take positive steps to mitigate the distractions and discomfort that might result from these experiences. Our staff will keep calm and carry on as a positive community and be open to discussion with our wonderful students. If your children are upset by this exhibition, please refer them to our counselors or intervention specialists. It is up to all of us to respond in a positive manner and keep the focus on what is important, providing a high quality education in a safe and orderly environment. We ARE Paschal! Stay Paschal Strong!
Please feel free to contact me if you have any concerns. Thank you for your support of our wonderful Paschal community. You are the best. I am proud to be a Panther.
T
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