As someone who has attended (in my younger days) more than one science fiction convention, and once stood in line for Yeoman Rand‘s autograph (no, I can’t rationally explain that to myself either), I understand the point of view of the parents who wished to protect their geeky children from ridicule by having Dress Like a Geek Day canceled at University Park Elementary.
And after the whole “Thug Day” controversy at Highland Park High School a few years back, I suppose the school district needs to be cautious.
But wouldn’t a more sensible solution to have been to ask the children to adhere to the original definition of the word “geek.” Â Think of it: Hundreds of Park Cities children could have been running around dressed like carnival performers, pretending to bite the heads off rubber chickens. What a joyful experience that could have been, instead of a bland “Panther Spirit Day.”
You misplayed this one, Highland Park ISD.
