(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Hampshire High School’s spring musical “The Prom” will go on after all, District 300 Supt. Dr. Susan Harkin informed students, families and staff Thursday.
The musical, which follows a lesbian student banned from bringing her girlfriend to the high school prom, was postponed last week after Harkin said the district received “hate-filled” emails and threats to out students in the Gay Straight Alliance.
“After an outpouring of support from students and our school community, the district has reconsidered the initial decision,” Harkin wrote.
The superintendent wrote that the most important factor in approving the musical was the development of a safety plan, which she added will “extend beyond the scheduled performance dates.”
“The plan offers safeguards addressing a wide range of potential issues, including, but not limited to potential harassment, bullying, and violence targeting LGBTQ+ students, performers, staff and community members,” Harkin said.
A nationwide rise in bullying, threats and violence directed toward the LGBTQ+ community prompted Harkin to push for the additional safety and security measures, she said.
Hampshire Village President Mike Reid said they are looking forward to performances of the show.
Harkin asked members of the community to report any information that could endanger a student or staff member to report it to the “Safe School Tip Line” on District 300’s website.
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