Oct 15

Oct 15 USA Day at Central Davidson High School sparks controversy

A Homecoming Week celebration at Central Davidson High School (CDHS) has triggered a controversy with students, parents and the community. Spartan leaders say school spirit was the main focus this week. Rumors spiraled and sparks flew on social media as the Spartans celebrated Homecoming Week. Davidson Local received a tip on Wednesday morning, October 13, from a Spartan parent asking about an alleged “Trump Rally” at CDHS. The tip was followed with reports from parents of various political persuasions. Each expressed concerns about backlash against students.

Officials at CDHS called this a misunderstanding. During the course of the week, daily activities were planned by students and approved by advisors. Wednesday’s theme was promoted as USA Day according to the school’s website.

*An advertisement for Homecoming Week events*

Principal Matthew Colton said, “It was straight up American Day. It’s a little unfortunate that they put the political spin on it.” He said the school had to forgo many homecoming traditions, rallies for the past few years. He explained this year was about showing school spirit in the midst of COVID restrictions and mandates and called it unfortunate for the kids as American Day was “blown out of proportion.”

This is one image of students circulating on social media and sent to Davidson Local. This is one of several images that appear to be taken outside of the school. Others images sent to Davidson Local include flags with profanity.

Some parents say that students wearing pro-Trump paraphernalia were bullied on Facebook by those in other districts. Others expressed that their children felt intimidated by a group calling themselves “insurrectionists.”

Colton said many students wore red, white and blue while others chose to make political statements. The principal called it a "regular school day." “To be fair and balanced, some students had Trump paraphernalia. Some dressed in red, white and blue. Others had somewhat political attire. This has been over politicized.... It wasn’t anticipated.” Colton added any vulgar clothing or attire was asked to be removed. The students were asked to focus on wearing school colors the next day, which was promoted as a team spirit day.

Kenneth Wright, a parent of three expressed support for free speech in this case. “I feel like as long as all sides are allowed to exhibit their political views /beliefs and it doesn’t disrupt the flow of school then go for it. It’s important for young adults to learn to express themselves as long as it’s in mature fashion.”

Parents of students who felt intimidated spoke off the record out of concern for retaliation against their children. They say there has been a long standing divide fueling their concerns for student safety. One parent said she would have kept her students home from school if she knew there would have been “What seemed like a Trump Rally.”