Waukesha school district recently decided to exclude Miley Cyrus’ popular song ‘Rainbowland’ from its first-grade music concert. The backlash from parents and supporters has been fierce, with some claiming censorship and others applauding the move. The decision sheds light on the ongoing debate over what kind of content is appropriate for young children in schools. In this article, we explore both sides of the issue and seek to understand why the district made such a controversial choice.
The School District of Waukesha in Wisconsin recently made headlines when it banned Miley Cyrus’ song “Rainbowland” from Heyer Elementary School’s upcoming first-grade music concert. The decision was made after a classroom teacher suggested the song to the music teacher, but it was found controversial. According to the school district, the music teacher checked with the principal to determine if the song would be acceptable to use in a first-grade music concert, and the principal then consulted a central office administrator. Together, they reviewed the song alongside the district’s Board Policy 2240 – Controversial Issues in the Classroom, and in accordance with the policy, they determined the song “could be deemed controversial.”
The decision to ban the song has faced criticism, with some people arguing that it promotes inclusivity and diversity, core values that should be taught in schools. The song, which is a duet with Dolly Parton, includes lyrics like “Living in a Rainbowland where you and I go hand in hand. Oh, I’d be lying if I said this was fine. All the hurt and the hate going on here We are rainbows, me and you. Every color, every hue. Let’s shine on through. Together, we can start living in a Rainbowland.”
According to the board policy, “a controversial issue is a topic on which opposing points of view have been promulgated by responsible opinion and likely to arouse both support and opposition in the community.” The district’s decision to ban the song has sparked a debate on whether the policy is too rigid and stifles creativity, or whether it is necessary to prevent potentially divisive issues from being introduced into the classroom.
Some people have pointed out that banning the song sends the wrong message to young children, who are at an impressionable age and need to learn about the importance of diversity and inclusion. Critics argue that the song celebrates differences and encourages unity, which are crucial for building a harmonious and tolerant society.
However, others have defended the school district’s decision, pointing out that the policy is in place to prevent potentially divisive issues from being introduced into the classroom. They argue that while the song may have good intentions, it could still be seen as controversial by some students or parents, which could cause unnecessary conflict.
The debate over the song highlights the challenges that schools face when it comes to promoting diverse and inclusive values while also ensuring that they adhere to board policies and procedures. In recent years, schools across the United States have come under scrutiny for failing to address issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusivity, leading to calls for greater accountability and reform.
School districts must strike a delicate balance between promoting inclusive values and maintaining a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students. While some have criticized the decision to ban the song, others have defended it, highlighting the need for schools to have clear and effective policies in place to navigate potentially divisive issues.
In a separate incident in the same area, the Arrowhead Union High School district recently faced criticism for a situation involving Waukesha West High School. Families with the Waukesha West basketball program received a letter stating that their designated room while playing at Arrowhead High School had a camera, and that video was taken. The school said, “some if not many of our players went through the process of changing before and after the contest without knowledge of being filmed.”
Arrowhead Superintendent Laura Myrah shared pictures of the room, which is typically used as a study hall. It showed a camera in the middle of the ceiling, windows, and several desks. In an email, the superintendent said “the space is clearly not a locker room or changing room with any expectation of privacy.” Teams visiting Arrowhead are given team rooms near bathrooms to change, which is a format they have used for about 10 years.
Myrah called this recent situation a misunderstanding about the purpose of the room. However, some students and parents have expressed concern about the incident, arguing that the presence of a camera in a room where students change is unacceptable and potentially invasive.
The incident highlights the importance of ensuring that schools provide safe and secure environments for students, and that policies and procedures are in place to protect their privacy and dignity. As schools continue to face new challenges related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, it is essential that they remain vigilant and responsive to the needs of their students and families.
As the controversy surrounding the Waukesha school district’s decision to ban Miley Cyrus’ ‘Rainbowland’ from their 1st grade music concert continues to swirl, it raises important questions about the role of music in education and the appropriateness of certain lyrics for young children. While some argue that the song promotes positivity and inclusivity, others feel that its content is too mature for young ears. Regardless of which side of the debate you fall on, it’s important to continue the conversation about what is appropriate for children to listen to and to work together to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students.
