TRENDING

What one South Carolina principal said will probably shock—and disappoint—you.

Back-to-school season is here, which means that students have to return to dressing according to their school's dress code. Some schools have super strict guidelines while others are fairly 'lax. But no matter how rigorious the rules are at your school, there's absolutely nothing that makes what Stratford High School Principal Heather Taylor said to her students appropriate.

According to a recording obtained by a local news station, Principal Taylor addressed the "leggings as pants" debate at an assembly on Tuesday, Aug. 22, telling her sophomore students, "Unless you’re a size zero or a two and you wear something like that, even though you’re not fat, you look fat."

It's understandable that an administrator would want to ensure that her students adhere to the school's dress code. However, it is in no way, shape or form acceptable for an educator to body shame her students into doing so. Her comments hurt her students (one student said "I’m not a size zero and I kind of felt targeted because of my size") and could likely cause permanent damange to them. She also insinuated that being fat is a negative thing, which it isn't. Bottom line, students should have the opportunity to learn in an environment free from judgement. That is not what this pricipal provided them with. 

Here's what Principal Taylor said in response to the backlash, from a statement provided to HuffPost:

"My intention was not to hurt or offend any of my students in any way. I assured them all that I am one of their biggest fans and invested in their success. After speaking with our students and receiving their support, I am confident that, together, we are ready to move forward and have a wonderful year. Stratford High is a very caring community, and I want to thank all of our parents and students who have offered their support to me and provided me with an opportunity to directly address their concern. I am very proud to be a Stratford Knight." 

What would you do if your principal made these same comments? Have you ever felt shamed for the way you look? Tell your story in the comments.

by Sydney Adamson | 8/28/2017