Peter Clenott

BAH HUMBUG: STUDENT SUSPENDED OVER CHRISTMAS CHEER! Kennedy Middle School student Megan Walker was suspended yesterday, the first day of school for the new academic year. Her offense? You might think it was vandalism, tardiness, or lack of respect but you'd be wrong. The sixth grader's crime was, of all things, showing a little early holiday spirit. In flagrant violation of the student dress code, Megan was caught wearing a snowman shirt bearing the "offensive" slogan, "Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas." Why, the nerve of this plucky little twelve-year-old! Turns out local school policy precludes such religious sentiment, and Megan's stunt earned her the rest of the week off from school. (Sounds to me like Christmas came a little early for one Kennedy student.) Megan was warned not to wear the shirt when she returns to school next week, but from what school officials told me yesterday they were "far from reassured that she'd comply." Hmm, sounds like a challenge to me! Stay tuned for the Santa Standoff as we bring it to you live from the halls of Kennedy Middle School