Birmingham, Ala., Jan 18, 2007 / 12:09 pm
Administrators at Robert Napier School, who told a 13-year-old student last week she could not wear her necklace and crucifix for health and safety reasons, have changed their mind and said she could wear it as long as it remains hidden.
They also agreed to review the school policy on jewelry at the Jan.24th meeting of school governors.
These recent decisions were made after the parents of the Catholic girl, Samantha Devine, met with head teacher Fiona Miller on Monday.
According to Kent News, the girl’s mother, Rosemary Devine, said: “The school originally told us Sam was not allowed to wear the cross because it was a health and safety issue, but they have changed their mind and allowed her to wear it if it is kept hidden."
“I don’t want the school to completely change its rules, just amend them so everyone can wear a discreet religious symbol,” she said.
Last week, Samantha’s form teacher ordered her to remove the cross and necklace for health and safety reasons. She had been warned that if she continued to wear the jewelry she could face suspension or even expulsion from school.