Parents Complain of School Underwear Inspection

School officials in the Poway Unified School District are investigating complaints by parents that a female vice principal required some girls to prove they were not wearing thong underwear to a school dance.

The incident allegedly occurred at a costume-party dance at Rancho Bernardo High School in northern San Diego County attended by 725 students.

“We are taking this seriously and want to ensure that any actions to be taken are based upon the facts,” said Supt. Don Phillips.

Parents assert that the vice principal made dozens of girls lift their dresses to prove that they were not wearing the skimpy underwear. A male teacher made boys wearing togas show that they were wearing underwear, the parents maintain.

“Everyone is just appalled and devastated,” said Kim Teal, whose daughter, Rebecca, attended the dance Friday. “They definitely crossed any line of decency.”

Eight parents met with Rancho Bernardo High Principal Paul Gentle on Tuesday.

In a statement, the district said it is investigating “steps that were taken by staff members to ensure appropriate student dress before entering a high school dance.”

Parents say the girls had to display their panties in front of male students and teachers, who “got to enjoy the peep show,” Teal said.

Phillips said students, staff and others who attended the dance are being interviewed.

Parents said they believe the inspection was in reaction to incidents at a dance last year, when one girl bared her breasts and another took off her underwear.