What legacy?

I would like to comment regarding the recent dress code violation incident at Roosevelt Elementary School.

First, I was surprised that the haircut in question was considered a violation of the dress code. In my opinion, we need to allow children to develop as individuals so long as their actions and attire do not distract from the primary purpose of learning. I do not believe that particular haircut distracted in any way. I believe that a dress code needs to be written that is less subjective in interpretation.

Second, but more importantly, I am extremely disappointed with the many parents and community members who have chosen to make this a personal attack on Mr. Keffer. Though he made, in my opinion, a bad judgment call, that's just what it was -- a judgment call. Just because we disagree on this one issue does not mean that he is a bad man, bad principal or a bad American -- all claims made on various social media sites. I appreciate the leadership that Mr. Keffer has brought to Roosevelt and continue to support him as my son's principal. It is encouraging to me to know that many of the staff of Roosevelt also showed their support for their principal at the board of education meeting.

Though many have commented about the supposed character flaws of a man most have never even spoken to, I find it frightening how quickly gossip and maligning comments can spread as "truth." I hope that the lesson our children learn from this incident is not about how to attack a man's character or instill and fuel hatred for a person who made a decision we disagree with. We need to learn how to disagree with one another without resorting to profanity, rhetoric and personal attacks.

We need to remember our children are watching us. As a parent, if I make a decision my son doesn't like, if he follows the example of some of my colleagues, I suppose he'll set up a Facebook page and call me an anti-military child abuser. Is that the kind of legacy we are leaving for our children? I hope not.

Kevin Daniels

Hays