RESOLUTION NO. RS2008-379

A resolution requesting the Metropolitan Board of Public Education to consider requiring an appropriate level of decorum during Metro Nashville Public Schools’ graduation ceremonies.

WHEREAS, Members of the Metropolitan Council have received complaints regarding the lack of decorum at Metropolitan Nashville Public School high school graduations; and

WHEREAS, according to several parents, the graduation ceremony for McGavock High School this year was repeatedly interrupted by certain graduates’ loud and unruly behavior, making it difficult for parents and students to hear the speeches being offered; and

WHEREAS, it appears that a lack of proper decorum is becoming commonplace in both public and private high school graduation ceremonies; and

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Nashville Public School System should take a lead and set the example for appropriate decorum at these graduation events by adopting a policy regarding acceptable behavior among graduates; and

WHEREAS, such a policy could require graduation ceremonies to be stopped in the event of unruly behavior, and/or withholding of diplomas from graduates that are misbehaving; and

WHEREAS, the adoption of such a policy would help preserve the integrity of the graduation ceremony experience and would encourage our graduates to celebrate in an appropriate manner.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Metropolitan Board of Public Education to consider requiring an appropriate level of decorum during Metro Nashville Public Schools’ graduation ceremonies.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution to Mr. Chris Henson, the Interim Director of the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools, and to each member of the Metropolitan Board of Public Education.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Jim Gotto