Hazing Incident Discipline

Re “In-House Suspensions Ordered for Wrestlers,” Jan. 14.

I wholeheartedly support the disciplinary action taken by the school administration. As the parent of two students at Westlake, I would specifically like to commend Athletic Director Joseph Pawlick for his commitment to the code of conduct and standards that are set for all students districtwide, and for his refusal to succumb to the pressure of outraged parents.

I am particularly sensitive to the issues because of my own disappointing experience with Oxnard High School following the unprovoked assault of my son by an opponent at a sporting event last fall. The administration not only allowed this athlete to continue participating in the sport for the duration of the season but did not discipline him until four months later, when it became apparent that he could face prosecution by the district attorney if they did not. My son had sustained multiple factures (requiring surgical repair) in addition to the loss of an entire season of sports, yet the Oxnard School District’s main concern was the protection of the rights of their student rather than the investigation of the facts and the accountability of their student.

Members of our community should know that in addition to the Conejo Valley Unified School District Discipline Policy and Procedures, all high schools in our district utilize the Co-Curricular Code and Contract, which clearly defines behavior expectations and the consequences of violations thereof. In order to participate in any co-curricular activity, a student and his or her parent are required to sign this contract. A student who violates the contract is well aware of the potential consequences in advance. Discipline is to be meted out evenly, and an appeals process exists where the student’s previous history and any special circumstances may be further considered.

Last year Westlake High School launched a school-wide Character Education Program following the character education goals established by the school district. Specifically, five character traits have been targeted: kindness, integrity, respect, responsibility and perseverance. These are qualities we hope to promote within our school community, and that cannot happen without administrative example and support.

Westlake High School stands tall in my book for upholding the highest standards of conduct and for the expectation of each student’s personal responsibility for his or her actions.

BONNIE ADAMICK

Westlake Village