Some students at Marysville-Pilchuck High in Marysville, Washington, were seen wearing T-shirts that support a student who killed four classmates at the school, according to a letter from Tulalip Tribes.
A letter from the Tulalip Tribes chairman says the tribe supports the Marysville School District on banning T-shirts that support school gunman Jaylen Fryberg.
The letter addressed to Marysville School District Superintendent Becky Burg and dated Apr. 29 said: “Last week was the six-month mark for the shooting and we witnessed students wearing ‘Team Jaylen’ T-shirts at the assembly.”
“This attire creates an environment that is harmful to other students who are trying to heal and recover from the tragedy and the tribe would like to support the school district on banning all T-shirts, bandanas and/or any other clothing or collateral items that support Jaylen Fryberg and the actions he took on Oct. 24, 2014.”
The letter was posted on the TulalipNEWS.com Facebook page.
The school district responded with the following statement regarding the letter.
"On April 24th, the date that marked 6 months since the murder-suicide at Marysville Pilchuck High School, the school held an optional student-planned and student-led gathering in which students from other district high schools were invited to attend. During this time, it was reported that a small number of those students wore t-shirts with the phrase "Team Jaylen". Concern from some students and adults was brought to the attention of the school's administration. The students were talked to individually and were asked to change their attire."
"The action of this small number of students was isolated to the day of the gathering. However, it should be noted that any attire that could potentially disrupt the educational environment will be addressed and students will continue to be asked to remove items of clothing or other personal effects that could create such a disruption."
"The letter from Tribal Chairman Mel Sheldon indicated their support in making our schools a healthy and safe environment for all students."
"As our students and staff continue to heal and recover from the tragic events of October 24th, we will continue to be cognizant of, and address, any and all actions of others who may intentionally or unintentionally disrupt the educational environment."
"We remain steadfast in our work with the Tulalip Tribes and the City of Marysville to continue on the long road of recovery and to create an environment in our schools and communities where all students can learn without disruption."
