I heard back from the principal today. She listened to me, kind of. Our whole conversation lasted less than 3 minutes. I could tell she felt uncomfortable about the whole topic of religion in public school and quickly ended that by saying that when she started as principal this fall, she brought up the issue but was convinced to leave it alone because of strong community support.
If we ignore it, it will go away.
And the "Leroy the redneck reindeer" song. She asked "what didn't you like about it? I gave her the definition of redneck and said that I thought the use of it in an elementary school program was inappropriate and offensive. What may be acceptable in adult comedy routines may not be taken the same way when it comes from the mouths of children. She took no claim for any of the song choices and said she would pass my message on to the music teacher.
I still feel unheard and now singled out as the wimpy- can't take a joke, heathen. :(
I think I 'll just let it go until next year. Before the practice even begins, I will have a conversation with the music teacher and express my concerns. What other choice do I have?
5 comments:
I'm glad you spoke your mind. I totally get the reluctance to touch the religion issue, but the redneck thing? Teaching kids comedic insults before they are capable understanding the subtle nuances of adult humor is asking for trouble. It's cute until someone shouts "redneck" in a crowded restaurant and the local chapter of the Hell's Angels happens to be dining nearby...
Yeah, kind of a disappointing reaction from the principal.
There really isn't much you can do now. Maybe ask the kid (s?) how they felt about the song(s)? Definitely feel it out before next xmas and voice any concerns you might have in advance. I think it's great that you took a stand. Not sure if I would have been brave enough in your position.
I'm glad to hear you spoke your mind. That kind of stuff would have never flown where I grew up (in the suburbs of DC.) I NEVER sang a religious song in school. We sang fairly neutral holiday songs, like Frosty and Rudolf.
I don't mind Jesus songs being taught to my children, but I'm a Christian. That doesn't mean I can't put myself in your shoes, and it doesn't feel good or right that they don't even care or recognize that some people might be offended by it. It's terrible, but I guess it will keep happening until someone sues.
Though the principal's reaction was disappointing (I guess she doesn't realize that she's responsible for what happens in her school, not the music teacher) at least you brought your concerns to the school. It's a starting point.
Redneck Reindeer? Are you kidding me? What the hell kind of song is THAT for kids to be singing. Oh brother. I would have said something too.
Wow, I really like this blog. Good reads here!
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