The principal of Westport’s Staples High School today appealed to parents to help keep this year’s Homecoming event alcohol free and said a repeat of last year’s drinking will end the celebration forever.
John Dodig: drinking is “flirting with death.” WN file photo
In an e-mail to parents, John Dodig said the Saturday, Oct. 30 Homecoming will not be a repeat of 2009.
“As you may remember, last year’s event was a disaster due to the unprecedented number of students who arranged to drink before coming to the football game,” he said.
“As disturbing as Homecoming was, last year’s event is now history. I have talked and written about it and held countless discussions with students, teachers, administrators, and parents. It is time to think ahead.”
Dodig said all students will attend assemblies next week and view a powerful film telling the story of a student at the University of Colorado who died after a night of fraternity drinking.
“It is so powerful that we have scheduled 30 minutes after each viewing for debriefing and comments from students,” he said.
“We will have an ample number of counselors, social workers, the Outreach Worker, and others to handle any students who need attention.”
Dodig asked parents to speak to their youngsters about the dangers of being intoxicated and then being in a motor vehicle making its way to the football field.
“Drinking to the point of passing out (as many did last year) is flirting with death,” he said.
Dodig warned that anyone caught drinking will be suspended for up to 10 days, while juniors and seniors will loses parking privileges or eligibility to participate in the parking lottery in the future.
“We will have a Breathalyzer on hand to be used if needed,” he said.
Dodig added: “I can’t imagine that we will have a repeat of last year. However, if that does happen, it should come as no surprise to anyone that we will no longer have a Homecoming event.
“Since I am eternally optimistic, I believe that our students will rise to the occasion. All adults, however, must send the same message.”
Dodig will among those participating in a “Conversation in the Community on Underage Drinking” sponsored by the Westport Public Library and Staples PTA.
It will take place Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 7:30 p.m. in the Bedford Middle School cafeteria.
