CENTER TWP. — On the surface, it sounds like a simple request.
Central Valley High School senior Toni Kress wants to wear a U.S. Army sash over her gown at the school’s upcoming commencement exercises.
Principal Shawn McCreary has told Kress, and others entering the military, that adorning their gowns in this way will not be allowed. If they do so, they won’t be allowed to participate in the ceremony, which is set for 7 p.m. June 1 at the Community College of Beaver County Dome.
Prohibiting the graduate from wearing the sash upsets the Kresses.
“I’m peeved. I’m very upset because we’re very proud of my daughter,” said Toni’s mother, Megan Kress of Center Township. “I’m very disgusted I was told no. … My daughter has a right to show her pride in the military service.”
Toni Kress is set to leave for boot camp in August, and her mom said she’s encouraging her to wear the sash despite the school’s ruling.
“She’ll be wearing it,” Megan Kress said. “She’s earned her spot, and I can’t believe (the school) told me no.”
School officials see the matter differently. McCreary wouldn’t specifically address the situation involving Toni because it involved a student, but he explained how Central Valley conducts commencement.
“Our graduation is a formal ceremony,” he said.
Students wear the gown that’s provided, and those who earn highest honors wear a sash, he said. National Honor Society members wear a gold cord and a pin.
“We do not permit students to wear anything on their gowns that depicts what their future plans may be,” McCreary said.
Students who are entering the military are individually recognized; their names are announced, and they are asked to stand. The school district also plays a medley of military service songs during the ceremony.
“I think we do a very good job at our commencement ceremony honoring the past, present and future military members,” McCreary said.