WEST JORDAN, Utah — A West Jordan elementary school was accused by parents and veterans of disrespecting our Armed Forces this week, but the school district says it was all a mistake.
Students at Columbia Elementary School brought home a form this week that school officials later said had an inaccurate message, and under rule number three it stated, “Jackets or clothing with insignias representing the armed forces of our country or insignia that do not reflect the dignity of learning, modesty, and principles of education are not to be worn.”
Some parents and veterans were concerned about what they read on the form sent home with students.
“I’m a vet, my husband is a vet, my grandpa is a vet, and there is no reason why our kids shouldn’t be able to wear that proudly,” said parent and Navy Veteran Kezia Romero.
Parent Jill Leak teaches her children to look up to our men and women in uniform.
“You don’t want people to be excluded, especially those who are serving our country, that’s something we need to be proud of,” Leak said.
The Jordan School District said the form is not their dress code, and they said the incorrect form was only sent to parents of students at Columbia Elementary.
“We were shocked by it too because this is not district policy, and it doesn’t represent Jordan School District,” said District Spokesperson Sandy Riesgraf.
School District officials said the item on the dress code was included by mistake and not intentionally, and they said they are still trying to determine how that mistake occurred. Riesgraf said they’re investigating the possibility the mistake stemmed from a personnel issue.
On Thursday, Columbia Elementary sent out an email to parents clarifying the school’s actual dress code.
“We honor and respect our members of the military. Students are welcome to wear clothing with insignias that support and represent our military groups. We simply ask that they do so with respect.”
