Liberty

To the editor:

My name is Sandra Hanofee, I am graduating from Liberty High school as a senior, with the class of 2025. I would like to share my frustration about Liberty Central School not allowing me to wear my 4H or my IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association) cords at graduation.

 I have been a part of 4H since I was in the Middle School, where we participate in many hours of community service each year.  I am a member of the club Diehl Us In, located in Jeffersonville. Also, I have been a part of a Varsity riding team called Western IEA since Freshman year. 

I made it to Nationals in 2023 representing Diehl Us In and as a sophomore at Liberty High School. I am frustrated because of the number of rules at this district, especially when other districts are allowing these cords. I should be able to wear my cords to demonstrate my hard work as well as my team’s thanks to our coach Megan Blumenthal. 

This, in addition to my extracurricular activities, which are strongly encouraged at Liberty High School, are what prompted me to write this letter. I understand there are reasons for rules but I feel strongly that our district goes overboard to an extent that it actually makes students feel demoralized.