WHEATLAND, Wyo. — In doughnut shops, breakfast joints and at the local high school, everyone knows about “the banner.” It’s the talk of the town, and they’re ready for it to end.
“No Place for Hate” banners were taken down at Wheatland High and West Elementary last month. The Platte County School District 1 board voted 4-3 last week to deny a request to put the banners back up.
Several board members said the Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado’s sponsorship on the banner influenced their vote. They said the inclusion of the group was inappropriate.
The Anti-Defamation League, which sponsors the program, said that neither school will be allowed to continue participation. The program is in place at about 25 schools in Wyoming and Colorado and is designed to teach students anti-bullying and tolerance.
Wheatland High principal Maureen Ryff said Thursday the administration, along with the volunteer student mentors who started the program, are moving forward.
“They realize at this point the decision-making is out of their hands, out of our hands,” Ryff said.
On lockers at WHS and a gymnasium door are “No Place for Hate” fliers that students printed and posted. Supporters of the banners have taken to social-networking sites, starting two groups on Facebook. There’s talk of a demonstration. A letter-writing campaign is underway.
Superintendent Stuart Nelson said there will be a public comment period at the next school board meeting, scheduled for March 15.
