On Saturday we told you about a “queer pride pep rally” parents allege took place at Bettendorf High School. Among the complaints was mandatory attendance for the pep rally.
In a photo shared on social media, it appears a male student was wearing female clothing.
We sent an email to the district asking if there was an assembly that had drag queens or people dressed in opposite-sex attire. We also asked if it was gay pride related and if students were required to attend or receive a detention.
The director of communications for the district, a person called Celeste Miller, responded to our questions. Miller told The Iowa Standard that the high school hosted a Winter Pep Assembly on Friday to recognize winter sports athletes and featured performances by the band and show choir.
“Attendance at the pep assembly was required as it was still a part of the school day,” Miller said. “Our school assemblies are hosted by the students in our student council. They also coordinate dress-up days and weekly decorations. Friday’s assembly was the culmination of a Valentine’s themed spirit week with Friday being Formal Friday.”
Miller said the top two “Formal Friday” students as identified by students were recognize during the “student-run” assembly.
“As public school district, we strive to support and celebrate all students,” Miller said.
Miller added that students and parents are able to opt-out of attending assemblies.
