Vandals Went Too Far

Five students are suspended in the vandalism of a rival school (Sept. 30), and the damage reported included graffiti on the exterior of the gym, yellow paint on lockers, raw eggs tossed against a building, whipping cream smeared on the handball courts and dog food dumped near Buena High’s school sign.

Yet the assistant principal of Ventura High is quoted as saying, “I agree that their intentions were honorable and spirited,” but went on to say that the outcome was different. More appalling was the Ventura High principal: “To an extent it’s normal kid behavior that just goes a little too far. I don’t see that it’s a big deal.”

Please tell me that the principal and assistant principal have been misquoted. Otherwise, I am repelled by the twisted values which their statements imply. Any disrespect by students to persons or property should be unacceptable to school officials, if the inculcation of values has any place in the school curriculum. “Just a little too far” indeed.

M.H. SHAGAM

Ojai