Recently, we reported on cell phone bans in some schools, and today, NBC's Janet Shamlian brought us the story of schools that have created guidelines against cupcakes and hugging. WATCH VIDEO
In the case of the cupcakes, some school districts (in states including New York, New Jersey, California and Texas) have determined that they are too unhealthy for kids and should not be brought to school to celebrate birthdays or to be sold at bake sales.
In the case of hugs, schools in Texas and Illinois have banned public displays of affection. At Percy Julian Middle School in suburban Chicago, principal Victoria Sharts said that students form "hug lines" that make them late for classes and clogged the hallways.
"Hugging is really more appropriate for airports or for family reunions than passing and seeing each other every few minutes in the halls," Sharts said.
I don't know what a "hug line" is. But it seems a little draconian to issue an outright ban (other schools call it a guideline) against hugging altogether. Maybe there would be a way to eliminate these "hug lines" without getting rid of all physical contact.
But to me, the cupcakes thing is more nuts. How often do kids have a birthday party in school? A handful of times a year? Nobody's advocating for kids to be having a cupcake at school every day, nor should cupcakes be a snack served by the school. But as a special treat that a kid brings from home? Come on.