Grand Island, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Grand Island School District has reversed course, allowing a high school senior's parking space design at Grand Island High School to say "God is Love."
Grand Island Superintendent Brian Graham issued the following statement on Wednesday:
"The Grand Island Central School District remains committed to fostering an inclusive school environment that respects the rights and dignity of all students. We also take seriously our responsibility to uphold constitutional principles, including the First Amendment.
"While we strongly dispute any assertion that our policies or decisions violated the rights of any student, the Board of Education and District leadership, after careful consultation with legal counsel, have decided that the student in question will be permitted to proceed with her original senior parking space design."
Graham says the decision reflects a "thoughtful balance between upholding the law and avoiding prolonged, expensive, and divisive litigation that would ultimately distract from our shared mission—supporting student success."
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Keisha Russell of FirstLiberry.org represents Sabrina Steffans, who paid $50 for a reserved parking space for the upcoming school year. Russell says Steffans wanted to express herself by talking about her love for Jesus and God, and she submitted a design with scripture reference, talking about God is King. But Steffans' design was initially rejected, prompting a review and possible legal action for viewpoint discrimination.
Graham says the district will take time in the coming months to review the future of the senior parking space program and, "will consider whether adjustments to guidelines or practices are warranted to better reflect the goals as a public-school community."
"We thank the many members of our community who shared feedback, perspectives, and support during this discussion. Open and respectful dialogue is a hallmark of public education, and it’s something we will always value," concluded Graham.