Today, while sorting through my daughter’s backpack, I discovered a few crumpled papers at the bottom. Among the scattered items were flyers for local music lessons, a form for joining the Parent-Teacher Organization, and a physical education assignment.
The assignment, however, left me taken aback. It instructed, “…On Picture Day… role model and leader… plan ahead for attire… girls wearing skirts or dresses will earn 25 points… while girls and boys in nice pants and collared shirts will earn 15 points…”
I had to read it again; I was appalled. It sparked a sense of urgency within me to address this issue.
Historically, I have avoided confrontation, aiming to be the agreeable parent who does not disrupt the status quo. Many times, I have let unsettling matters slide, particularly concerning my child’s school environment, for fear of being labeled a difficult parent. Ironically, my daughter has always enjoyed wearing skirts and dresses, making it easy to dismiss the assignment. But I knew that silence would not serve the greater good.
Having recently pursued studies in social work, I recognize the importance of advocating against injustices, even if it means facing unpopularity. Thus, I drafted a message to the principal of my daughter’s school.
What I felt like expressing:
Are you serious with this?! It’s 2015, and you’re promoting this outdated notion? This is utterly unacceptable!
What I actually wrote:
Dear Principal Adams,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing as a concerned parent for the first time during my daughter Mia’s six years at this school. Typically, I trust the educators to guide our children appropriately. However, I was compelled to reach out regarding a recent physical education assignment that promotes a questionable standard of dress for Picture Day.
While I appreciate the value of dressing appropriately for various occasions, the specific criteria outlined in the assignment raised significant concerns. It states, “Girls who wear skirts or dresses will earn 25 points,” while “Girls in nice pants and collared shirts will earn only 15 points.” This policy is not only antiquated but also detrimental to young girls’ self-expression. It implies that a girl’s worth is tied to her appearance, which is simply unacceptable.
In today’s society, where we advocate for authenticity and acceptance, penalizing children for their clothing choices is disheartening. Not every girl feels comfortable in a dress; many successful women have never worn one.
I feel strongly about this matter, particularly as a parent dedicated to teaching my daughter the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it does not directly impact her.
As a professional in social work and education, I believe fostering tolerance and acceptance is essential. I am saddened to see a school policy that does not align with these values.
I sincerely hope action can be taken to amend this situation.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
I felt a sense of relief as I sent the message, and within minutes, I received a response from Principal Adams. He acknowledged my concerns and promised to discuss the matter with the physical education teacher that very afternoon.
While my anxiety lingered, I received an unexpected call from the school nurse shortly after, prompting me to visit the school. Upon arrival, I encountered the gym teacher responsible for the assignment, and I felt a wave of insecurity wash over me. However, I reminded myself that she likely did not know who I was or about my message.
After a brief encounter, the teacher approached me, expressing a willingness to discuss the issue. Although she criticized my choice to contact the principal directly, she assured me that changes to the assignment were forthcoming. While I left feeling slightly bullied, I stood firm in my beliefs.
I later sent a follow-up message to Principal Adams, thanking him for his prompt attention and reiterating that fair treatment of all students should take precedence over outdated norms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the experience reinforced a vital lesson: it is crucial to advocate for what you believe in, even if it risks your popularity. Ultimately, self-acceptance and integrity hold far greater importance.
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Summary:
This article details a parent’s confrontation with a school policy that promotes outdated gender norms through a physical education assignment. The parent, initially hesitant to speak up, ultimately advocates for fairness and individuality in children’s dress codes, fostering values of acceptance and self-expression.