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[barbie]

It really bothers me that one parent can continue to lump others in with their accusations.  Did you read what the student wrote?  It doesn't sound like she is upset with the situation or feels funny around any teachers at the school.  Furthermore it also sounds like "strip search" is a very inaccurate description of the situation.  It sounds like the paper isn't the only one that has to get its facts straight.  It's too bad that the paper had to blow things out of proportion, and that a parent (or two) even would find it "helpful" to call the paper.  Printing some things just doesn't help resolve them in a positive light.  It sounds like an apologize was made (in hindsight-we all think of better ways we could have done something).  I think this will be and should be handled between the school and the parents.

[Corky]

I was told of this before it ever made it to press. And I was also told they were strip-searched by my wife who works with one of the parents. So I don't know what to think.

I will say if it IS true, this principal should be fired immediately and the teacher should be arrested.

[STUDENT]

As the girls have communicated today it has become apparent that some of the girls were searched to further extent than others.

Most have said they had to take off all but their underwear and bras as they were patted down and had to pull out their bras.  Others said they only had take off shirts and pull down pants or skirts.

The principal only suspected 3 of the girls as possibly taking the money, but had to at least go through the motions with all of the girls INCLUDING THE ONE WHO HAD HER MONEY TAKEN!

The rest of the truth will come out as the investigation continues.  We can only hope and pray for those involved.  It would be a shame for this school to have any more adversity.

[Boylanjl]

As the girls have communicated today it has become apparent that some of the girls were searched to further extent than others.

Most have said they had to take off all but their underwear and bras as they were patted down and had to pull out their bras.  Others said they only had take off shirts and pull down pants or skirts.

The principal only suspected 3 of the girls as possibly taking the money, but had to at least go through the motions with all of the girls INCLUDING THE ONE WHO HAD HER MONEY TAKEN!

The rest of the truth will come out as the investigation continues.  We can only hope and pray for those involved.  It would be a shame for this school to have any more adversity.

Where did you come by this information you have posted?

[STUDENT]

This information was accumulated by talking to the parents of 11 of the 15 girls involved.

[bethany6788]

I talked to a couple different students and got different viewpoints.
In my opinion, this shouldn't have been printed UNTIL ALL FACTS were found.
This is disappointing.

[Boylanjl]

This information was accumulated by talking to the parents of 11 of the 15 girls involved.

First I will say this, I am not saying it did not happen.  Let the police investigate the incident and put the facts out.  If they file charges, then so be it.  I agree with Betahny.

[bethany6788]

I read the comment the 7th grader left on the MEN story, and that doesn't sound like a strip search.

It seems embellished a tiny bit.. 

[Boylanjl]

I read the comment the 7th grader left on the MEN story, and that doesn't sound like a strip search.

It seems embellished a tiny bit.. 

I read it too, kind of nice to here what the one girl went through.

[utility slug]

The outcome of this will be very interesting.

Opinions should be held until Trinity's side of the story is heard.

[STUDENT]

This MEN story apparently is Trinitys side....the students have yet to tell their side to the proper authorities.

[Daddio]

I had read that some are bothered that the paper ran this story.  It might be helpful to know that the Editor of the paper is a member of the church and must have thought long and hard about doing the story.
There also seems to be some confusion about what defines a "strip-search".  This was obviously more than a frisking and the fact that the Principal knew to have his female employees conduct the search is proof enough that he knew this was a questionable act. The standards expected of school officials are pretty high and for good reason. It is not difficult to set these students aside until they are reasonable represented. Why the rush? For $20-$30?  Really?
I also read that some are appalled that this stealing may have occured in a Christian school and therefore the response might be appropriate. Christian schools are not immune to everyday temptations.  And occasionally, 11 and 12 year old kids make bad choices. Surely, the Principal has dealt with this issue many times. But this kind of judgement is what is appalling! Young ladies are intensely private and their folks spend much time trying to establish that their bodies are not to be violated and modesty is paramount. And is a single stroke, all that is shoved aside for a dozen or more, over a small matter of petty thievery.  This is the main teacher they are expecting to have next year, the Head of the school and even the janitor. How can they ever feel safe and comfortable here?
I am raising daughters myself and I would not hesitate to pursue justice and even recompense if ANYBODY vioalted my girls, like this or even alot less than what is being suggested. Whether it be the police, school officials, mall security, landlords...or whatever.
Lastly, I have seen it said that this should have been handled by the school.  But, it is clear that the Principal instigated the alleged searches. To whom should they make their appeal?  The law provides for this type of situation and each of us has an absolute requirement to alert the authorities for allegations involving minors.  To think that the Principal would discipline himself is absurd. And the paper covers most police matters in our community...especially when the tales being told are so clearly in dispute. Finding the truth, is a good thing.

[bethany6788]

I know one of the guys at the paper is a member of the church. His kids went through Trinity.
However, I do not think that is the issue here.
There are no facts, only allegations.

I still find it hard to believe that this happened, especially a strip search. But the truth will come out, no matter what it is. I just wish the MEN would have waited to run a story. How can the police get unbiased opinions now after this article ran?

Petty theft..Did you know most thieves start out stealing little bits of money here and there? Yeah they make mistakes but at 11 or 12 they should be able to own up to them and face consequences. I'm NOT saying a strip search is right or that it didn't happen.

I agree, finding the truth is a good thing. Printing 'possible' truths is another.
That is my REAL issue with the story...

[Sojourner]

There are no facts, only allegations.

I agree, finding the truth is a good thing. Printing 'possible' truths is another.
That is my REAL issue with the story...

I don't think the MEN gives a hoot, and I doubt they care if they smear the name of Trinity.

[marilyn.monroe]

I don't know anything about this case.
All I can say is if any teacher or school worker stripped my kids to their underwear and/*or touched their bodies they would be in for BIG TROUBLE.