Evelyn Phalen, Morgantown
It’s only days before the graduation of my oldest son. I am more proud of him than I imagined possible.
He earned numerous honors and awards because of his hard work, and is an incredibly passionate person in everything that he does.
Several of his accomplishments can be recognized at his graduation from University High School (on Friday) by the wearing of honor cords, gifted by organizations that recognized his work and dedication at a ceremony May 8. However, Saturday I found out that Monongalia County does not permit the wearing of some honors because they were not programs at UHS.
However, these are nationally recognized programs, including 4-H and the Boy Scouts of America, whose honor cords and stoles are available for those who have earned them to wear as part of their graduation ensemble. Unless you participate in a high school graduation in Monongalia County.
If you live here, you must wear these honors under your graduation gown, much like your underwear, shirts, blouses, ties, pants, dresses, skirts, socks and so forth.
Our county has a policy that does not permit us to recognize these national organizations which have helped create the amazing people we are preparing to make a difference in the world. Other school districts across the nation recognize the invaluable contributions of 4-H and BSA in the development of a “well rounded” human being.
So, what is the purpose of the policy? From where I stand, it is a useless policy that prevents those attending graduations from learning that there are more places than just the school and academia to recognize their worth, while suggesting to the earners of these honors that the national honors they have earned are not considered valuable by the policy makers of the Monongalia County School system.
I want this policy changed, and I don’t believe I am the only person who does.