Janesville school officials are working to ease any bad feelings after an incident involving the way some Parker High School students dressed at a Beloit Memorial girls basketball game. The students were accused of dressing inappropriately in a “gangster” style. Some Beloit students expressed disappointment the costumes were intended to make fun of Beloit’s diverse culture. In an open letter to Beloit Memorial students, Parker Principal Chris Laue, Athletic Director Clayton Kreger, and the Head Girls Basketball Coach Ryan Tyrrell sent their apologies for any hurt caused by Parker students at the game. The letter explained how Parker students typically choose spectator themes for games as a way to encourage spirit. In this case however, the original theme chosen was inappropriate and in poor taste. Student leaders did try to change the theme, but some students opted to dress in a manner that was unacceptable. Janesville school officials say they plan to use this incident as a teaching and learning opportunity.
