Rebel Flag, Swastika Banned at MCS

By David Avitabile

MIDDLEBURGH - A clarification in the Middleburgh Central School dress code has banned the

Confederate flag, the swastika, and pictures of marijuana leaves or plants from clothing.

The clarification was announced at the December 10 meeting of the school board. The dress code covers respectful clothing and no promotion of harmful items, but the clarification was needed, Superintendent Mark Place told school board members.

"We’re always trying to stay ahead of concerns so our students feel safe and supported," Mr. Place said. "In this situation, a student came to us with a concern about the Confederate flag being worn in school. Under the Dignity for All Students Act, we’re required to look into and respond to anything that may involve harassment, intimidation, or discrimination.

"The clarifications I shared at the Board meeting were simply our thoughtful response to that student’s concern. They don’t change the dress code itself, but they help everyone better understand expectations that have been in place for a long time."

Recently, there have been questions regarding the enforcement of the dress code and two specific provisions:

* Respectful Clothing – Don’t wear anything with rude or offensive language or images, especially anything that puts down others based on race, religion, gender, or other personal characteristics.

The clarification added is: "This includes symbols that have been historically used to threaten or show hate toward others, such as the Confederate flag or a swastika."

The state, Mr. Place added, said the two items were identified as "symbols of hate" in a 2021 law.

* Promotion of Harmful Items – Clothing should not advertise alcohol, drugs, or anything violent or illegal.

The clarification added is: "This includes images of marijuana leaves or plants."

The issue was that marijuana is now legal in some situations, the Superintendent said.

Since the alterations were clarifications and not changes to the dress code, no public hearing is required, Mr. Place noted.

A letter will be sent home to parents and guardians to explain the clarifications and will be included in future editions of the dress code and student handbook.