Regulations for 'balanced' decorations kept in place
BY LARRY HLAVENKA JR.
Staff Writer

HOWELL - Last year the K-8 Howell School District and Board of Education received a series of complaints regarding holiday decorations in schools. Some parents were offended that a Nativity scene had been kept out of Christmas decorations. They saw it as an intentional slight to their faith.

In the wake of the discord, administrators maintained their position that the district strives to represent all faiths in an appropriate manner and decided to keep the established holiday decorations guidelines in place.

Speaking at the board's Oct. 4 meeting at the Ardena School, Lynn Coco, the district's affirmative action officer, said the policy will remain intact for the 2006 holiday season. She detailed the protocols of the policy and discussed the diversity council study group's findings.

The group met in the spring and included staff members, parents, administrators and clergymen. Coco said there was a "diverse representation of ethnic groups ... to determine if existing policy meets needs."

The members of the council found the established policy to be functioning appropriately. The group's recommendations include to "continue as is - with a balanced display."

Coco said that during holiday band and/or choral concerts, lyrics to songs will not be changed due to religious or cultural references that may be included in those pieces. She stressed education and understanding as goals, rather than the idea of instilling beliefs.

If there are children who do not wish to participate in holiday activities, alternative programs should be crafted, Coco said, adding that "the most important thing is that our students feel comfortable." She said she hopes the policy serves the district well.

In other business at the Oct. 4 meeting, Superintendent of Schools Enid Golden and Ardena School Principal Deborah Pennell cut a ribbon on the school's renovated library. The media center is sporting new carpeting, new chairs, new tables and a multi-tiered reading area.

The tiered area was built so that entire classes can read stories or listen to stories in an atmosphere conducive to learning, according to administrators.

The Ardena School, Route 524, was built in 1938 and is one of Howell's oldest schools.

"We extend our gratitude to the board for being here and helping to make Ardena a warm and beautiful place," Pennell said.

In addition to the library renovations, the gymnasium/auditorium has received new hardwood flooring and cushioned seating.