Students denied diplomas because "audience cheered" - taking it too far?

[tako]

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pitt.../s_510692.html

"Lots of parents complained that they could not hear their child's name called," said Joel Estes, Galesburg's assistant superintendent. "And I think that led us to saying we have to do something about this to restore some dignity and honor to the ceremony so that everyone can appreciate it and enjoy it."

The students will be allowed to obtain their diploma by completing eight hours of public service work, answering phones, sorting books or doing other chores for the district, of course. But it seems rather extreme to deny a student a diploma simply because "enthusiastic friends or family members cheered for them during commencement."

One of the students also brings up a good point at the end:

"It's not fair. Somebody could not like me and just decide to yell to get me in trouble. I can't control everyone, just the ones I gave tickets to," Trent said.

And even though the ceremony is about "dignity" and "honor," surely it's also a celebration of sorts? I'm only a junior, but I would my friends and family to cheer me on when I receive my diploma. I mean, it's the end of high school; it's graduation! As the end of four long years (or twelve, counting middle and elementary school), I feel like it warrants some noise.

[tako]

Oops, missed this in the Parent Cafe thread. Delete please, mod

[VeryHappy]

That's positively asinine.