An eighth grader in New Haven Connecticut was suspended for buying a bag of Skittles. In addition Michael Sheridan, an honors student, was removed as class vice president.
Why?
Apparently he violated a school “wellness” policy banning sales of junk food and fundraisers such as bake sales. (original article at the New Haven register)
So what’s the deal? Is buying candy an offense worthy of such severe punishment. Once again, I think making an example of Michael is misguided justice.
What is the purpose of the “no candy” rule? What is the school district hoping to accomplish? If they are encouraging healthy eating habits then why don’t they police lunches and snacks brought from home? Apparently it is ok to bring candy from home and even share it – as long as no money changes hands.
It is obvious that the school district is discouraging sales, they don’t want money changing hands at school. I can understand this. School is about learning not shopping. If students are selling things on school property then that opens a whole new set of issues.
So shouldn’t the policy be a straightforward – No Sales or Fundraisers in school period. Why hide behind a confusing “wellness” policy. Kids are kids after all and Skittles are not an illegal substance. As a parent, this is the type of policy that I fear the most. Most kids know what is right and wrong – and Skittles or candy is generally not a “wrong”.
To have a child’s future marred because they bought candy makes the school district looks silly. It is high time to revamp the “wellness” policy.
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UPDATE: Find some good ideas for packing healthy school lunches here.
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