Committee adds gestures and "derogatory slurs" to profane-language infraction for K-12

The St. Mary Parish Discipline Committee voted to add language to the profane or obscene language infraction to explicitly cover inappropriate gestures and derogatory slurs for all students in grades K-12.

Mr. Holmes, the staff presenter, told the committee the packet currently defines profane or obscene language to include "vocal words, messages, swearing, and any other inappropriate language toward another student," and said the proposal would add gestures and slurs: "some students like to give students that middle finger... Racial slurs and homophobic slurs. So that's the only edit of the over vision of the policy."

Committee members discussed whether to list specific categories of slurs (racial, homophobic) or to use a broader term. One committee speaker recommended a broader phrasing to avoid missing other slurs; a member explained the group decided to change the language to "derogatory slurs" so the rule would cover a wider set of terms and not be limited to only racial or homophobic slurs.

The committee moved and seconded the proposal and approved it by voice vote. The packet and discussion indicate the change applies to K-12 students.

The committee did not provide a list of excluded terms or an enforcement protocol beyond the discipline matrix; enforcement practices were left to administrators.