Rye School Boss: Student Tradition is Unacceptable

Rye Schools Superintendent Brian Monahan is saying no to a student tradition where high school seniors sleep outside on the "turf". The tradition was expected to take place Thursday evening.

"Unfortunately, some traditions are ill-advised and even dangerous," said Monahan in an email sent to parents Wednesday. "I believe that the “tradition” to sleep out on the High School field is one with both long and short-term consequences that can put our students at risk. I don’t believe I need to say more than to advise you that our fields are closed at night and will be on Thursday, as they are every night. I have reminded the Police Department and our own security staff of that fact."

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The full email follows:

From: Brian Monahan 
Sent: Wednesday, May 10, 2017 
Subject: from the supt. – for parents of seniors

Dear Parents of Seniors,

In the time I have been here, one of the things I have enjoyed most is getting to know many of your sons and daughters. They have excelled in academics, athletics and the arts. I have found them to be respectful and articulate young adults. You should be proud of them. I am sure you are.

Traditions are wonderful. Unfortunately, some traditions are ill-advised and even dangerous. I take my responsibility to help students avoid poor decisions very seriously. Based on the information that has been provided to me about past events, I believe that the “tradition” to sleep out on the High School field is one with both long and short-term consequences that can put our students at risk.

I don’t believe I need to say more than to advise you that our fields are closed at night and will be on Thursday, as they are every night. I have reminded the Police Department and our own security staff of that fact. I urge you to have a conversation with your children about their actions. I realize that this letter will not be well received by some parents and most students. Feel free to contact me if you have questions.

Sincerely,
Brian D. Monahan, Ph.D.