| Author |
Keeping in Touch:  What do you think of this????  |
|
princesspatches
True Blue Farmgirl
431 Posts
arttie
iron mountain
michigan
USA
431 Posts |
 Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 04:25:18 AM
|
We send our children to public schools. We live in a small town and everyone knows everyone. The teacher of our 2nd grader has chosen 'parody' songs for the kids to sing at the Christmas program. They are sang to song such as "She'll be coming Round the Mountain" and " O Christmas Tree".
But the lyrics are all about Partying, Shopping, Mastercarding xmas, and demeaning a 'not-so-perfect' xmas tree.
We are appalled, so say the least. We are thinking about taking our daughter out of the program. She will be participating in the program at church.
We just feel this goes against everything we are teaching our kids. We teach them that Christmas is about the birth of Christ, giving to others, living within their means, and spending time with family.
I know this will be long, but I am going to copy and paste the lyrics to one of the songs. Tell me what you think.
Arttie
Over the freeway and to the mall
A shopping we will go.
Get out of the way, I haven’t all day,
But I have lots of dough. Oh!
Over the freeway and to the mall
To buy a load of stuff.
It’s understood my check is good.
I just can’t get enough.
...
Over the freeway and to the mall
For Christmas time is here.
The carolers sing, cash registers ring,
My credit card is clear!
We’re over the freeway and to the mall,
I never wonder why,
It’s not a joke, I’m going broke,
There is so much to buy!
Over the freeway and to the mall
Why don’t you come along?
We’re gonna shop until we drop.
With us you can’t go wrong. Oh!
Over the freeway and to the mall
We never stop to rest.
Oh what a hoot, now get the loot,
For shopping is the best!
Oh what a hoot, now get the loot,
For shopping is the best!
(shout) Gift wrapped, please. Kaching!See More
|
|
|
princesspatches
True Blue Farmgirl
431 Posts
arttie
iron mountain
michigan
USA
431 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 04:27:22 AM
|
Lyrics to theother song I am upset with:
Arttie
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Why are your needles dropping?
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
The mess you make is whopping!
They said you’d last ‘til New Years Day,
Now all your green has is gone away.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree
Why are your needles dropping?
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Why are you always leaning?
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
This really is demeaning
Why can’t you stand up nice and tall?
Why must you lean against the wall?
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Why are you always leaning?
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
You look a little haggard.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
You are a fire hazard.
All though I know it’s not a joke,
Why must your limbs go up in smoke?
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
You are a fire hazard.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
You’re limbs are really sagging.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
The lower ones are dragging.
I always give your trunk a wrap,
Still on the carpet you leave sap.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Your limbs are sagging.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
I guess I’m superficial.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
I’m making it official.
Don’t get me wrong, I love you so,
But none the less, just so you know.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
I’m going artificial!
...
|
 |
|
|
Ninibini
True Blue Farmgirl
7577 Posts
Nini
Pennsylvania
USA
7577 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 05:51:19 AM
|
I'd be absolutely furious, too - and I am. I find it extremely interesting how most schools do not even allow the word "Christmas" in ANY progam anymore, and yet, this one gets away with it by making fun of it, Artie. I would like to see the teacher and even Principal reprimanded for this. You cannot possibly be the only person who was shocked and offended by this, but even if you were, I absolutely believe you would be right to take this a little further. I'd call the ACLJ for sure. I'd love to hear what they would say. ALSO, I would call the ACLU just to see if they really DO protect the Constitutional civil liberties of all... Tell them YOU'RE offended... Wouldn't that be interesting to see how that one goes. What if you're offended at their public ridicule of YOUR religious holiday and celebrations? What if YOUR freedom of speech or to choose is offended, mocked or attacked? What will the ACLU do to uphold the Constitution on YOUR behalf? And I also have to wonder what other religions would put up with this? I sincerely do not believe any other religion or belief system would accept mockery of a belief or tradition they hold dear - and they certainly would not allow a public school to teach their children how funny their practices or lifestyles are. What if they mocked, for example, the Menorah or the Star and Crescent or the Pentacle or the Rainbow? Hmmm... They'd never get away with it. Ever. Nor should they. Ever.
Justice for all, baby. Justice for ALL.
Perhaps this was in fact meant to be harmless and simply funny. To me, however, it is neither. This teacher has managed to use the platform of a holiday concert to mock and attack a belief system and holiday traditions at their most sensitive core: a child's heart and mind. Furthur, it attempts to undermine the parental or familial belief system and beloved traditions in an extremely stealthy way. Shame on them. They have no right to do this to ANY child for ANY reason. It's not simply offensive, it is a form of brainwashing that takes "the shaping of a child's mind" much further than the intended simple public education. Yes, it could be seen as a funny song - humor is, however, a brilliant way to deliver a message without directly offending, isn't it? Comedians use this technique all the time! Public religious expressions - oh, I'm sorry - CHRISTIAN religious expressions - are constantly under attack, being removed and taken down because they are deemed offensive to a single individual. This is simply a different "take down" of religious expression, and a subsequent interjection of an individual teacher's personal opinions and views of such. It is, in a public school setting with young children who do not know any better or understand what they are being taught, extremely wrong, offensive and overstepping boundaries beyond belief. And people should not - but most assuredly will - look past it simply because it is "funny."
I'm so sorry that this has happened - for many reasons and on many levels. Mostly, however, because I do not believe that in our great American society - which should be an amazing, respectful melting pot of peoples and their differences - ANYONE should be belittled or felt to be of lesser intelligence, dignity or worth for ANY reason.
Hugs -
Nini
Farmgirl Sister #1974
God gave us two hands... one to help ourselves, and one to help others!
|
Edited by - Ninibini on Dec 04 2012 06:19:59 AM |
|
|
|
texdane
Farmgirl Legend Chapter Leader Chapter Guru
4658 Posts
Nicole
Sandy Hook
CT
USA
4658 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 05:51:21 AM
|
Oh Arttie! I totally understand your concern. I could see a parody song in a program, IF it is a cute one, but then just one. But to do a whole program about it, I just don't get it. These songs are appalling, especially for second graders who are still filled up with Christmas magic. This is very discouraging. I would speak up at the school, if it was me. Is this teacher a very young one? The one about shopping and maxing credit cards and "good" checks, loot...it is so tacky and teaching children the wrong thing, for sure. And the tree one about being a fire hazard? Tacky, tacky, tacky.
Nicole
Farmgirl Sister #1155
KNITTER, JAM-MAKER AND MOM EXTRAORDINAIRE
Chapter Leader, Connecticut Simpler Life Sisters
Suburban Farmgirl Blogger
http://sfgblog.maryjanesfarm.org/ |
|
|
|
Joey
True Blue Farmgirl
1868 Posts
Joey
Gulf Coast
FL
USA
1868 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 05:59:39 AM
|
I think this is TERRIBLE!! It offends me and my daughter is grown. I agree with my sisters above and I would talk to the school NOW. Talk about them encouraging bad values. I guess I just don 't see the humor. Joey
Well behaved women rarely make history. |
|
|
|
princesspatches
True Blue Farmgirl
431 Posts
arttie
iron mountain
michigan
USA
431 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 06:33:45 AM
|
Thank You! The teacher feels we are being too serious!. My concern is if the kids thinks it is ok. to ridicule an imperfect tree. What happens to the imperfect children around them. If a child does not have name-brand clothes or the right shoes. Or a disability. Is it ok to bully and tease them? Where does it end? Where is the line drawn?
I would like to see nice traditional cuteness.........
Arttie |
|
|
|
Ninibini
True Blue Farmgirl
7577 Posts
Nini
Pennsylvania
USA
7577 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 06:43:25 AM
|
Excellent points all around, Arttie... Excellent points...
Farmgirl Sister #1974
God gave us two hands... one to help ourselves, and one to help others!
|
|
|
|
kysheeplady
True Blue Farmgirl
1291 Posts
Teri
KY
USA
1291 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 07:17:20 AM
|
OH MY! And "they" can't figure out what is wrong in the world!
That is a good example of what is wrong in this world today! So very sad that this is the way of the future!
Teri
"There are black sheep in every flock"
White Sheep Farm
www.whitesheepfarm.com |
|
|
|
FebruaryViolet
True Blue Farmgirl
4810 Posts
Jonni
Elsmere
Kentucky
USA
4810 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 07:26:30 AM
|
I really feel like these songs reflect more "adult" thoughts regarding the commercialization and bustle of the holidays. These aren't the thoughts of children, especially about the magic of Christmas. My 4 year old can't stop talking about (or worrying about) all the wonderful things that go along with this season, from setting up the creche to making sure the fireplace is clean so Santa won't get soot all over his clothes :)),
I'm not sure why she chose these songs for little ones to sing. I'm sure she thought parents would get a kick out of it, but I'm a big proponent of little ones actually being little.
"Hey, I've got nothing to do today but smile..."
The Only Living Boy in New York, Paul Simon |
|
|
|
Annika
True Blue Farmgirl
5602 Posts
Annika
USA
5602 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 07:59:23 AM
|
Jadedness and cynicism are not something that a child needs to be taught. Christmas is a magical and wonder filled time and children need to have the chance to live that. I am angry that the teacher is inflicting this cynicism on the kids, she should know better.
Hugs n' cookies =}
Annika
Farmgirl & sister #13
http://thegimpyfarmgirl.blogspot.com/
http://pinterest.com/annikaloveshats/
|
|
|
|
Penny Wise
True Blue Farmgirl
1903 Posts
Margo
Elyria
OH
USA
1903 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 08:08:11 AM
|
i agree with all of the above comments- i usually consider myself somewhat liberal when it comes to Christmas and music -my own tastes are quite varied- however i truly am offended by what they are wanting to do in this program....
i worked retail many many years and still fine these offensive.....
and i agree taht it definitely sends the message that bullying, ridicule, etc. are ok...
just my 2 cents....
Farmgirl # 2139
proud member of the Farmgirls of the Southwest Henhouse
~*~ counting my pennies; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
|
|
|
princesspatches
True Blue Farmgirl
431 Posts
arttie
iron mountain
michigan
USA
431 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 09:50:47 AM
|
The principal of the school just called me. They are removing these types of songs from the program. The entire program will be re-vamped to be more appropriate for the children. there must have been many parents calling on this topic. Because I know things don't get changed by the complaint of one parent, it takes many. Which makes me feel much better that others are raising their children in the same way.
Arttie |
|
|
|
Penny Wise
True Blue Farmgirl
1903 Posts
Margo
Elyria
OH
USA
1903 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 11:02:44 AM
|
glad to hear this news!
Farmgirl # 2139
proud member of the Farmgirls of the Southwest Henhouse
~*~ counting my pennies; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
|
|
|
Joey
True Blue Farmgirl
1868 Posts
Joey
Gulf Coast
FL
USA
1868 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 1:39:16 PM
|
EXACTLY what they should do. Glad to hear it. Joey
Well behaved women rarely make history. |
|
|
|
MagnoliaWhisper
True Blue Farmgirl
2817 Posts
Heather
Haysville
Kansas
USA
2817 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 2:16:45 PM
|
I agree shocking. But, I must say it's just one reason we homeschool.
PLEASE do not take this wrongly. I am NOT downing people at all who choose Public School, I went to public school myself. But, what I am about to say is just the facts. The fact is when you send your child to another person to do the teaching, no matter, how good intentioned and how lovely the person is, the simple fact is their own morals, ethics etc, are what will be imparted on to your child. The only way to change that is to school them your selves.
I myself have a lot of religious beliefs that are way out of main stream. And when I was in PS I often had to excuse myself from the activities that the teacher (even the nicest ones) chose to have us do. If you decide to public school, in my opinion there's nothing else you can really do, but excuse your child from those activities. Cause it's just too hard to please absolutely every parent in the class.
http://www.heathersprairie.blogspot.com |
|
|
|
Wendy Flower
Farmgirl in Training
39 Posts
Wendy
Gladstone
ND
USA
39 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 2:40:09 PM
|
Those songs are very poorly chosen, and should not be used except to open up a dialog with the school as to what they are presenting. Home School is a great idea if a family can do it. I've used materials from www.oakmeadow.com/ for Home Schooling. Good luck.
Wind Farmer & Seamstress. |
|
|
|
princesspatches
True Blue Farmgirl
431 Posts
arttie
iron mountain
michigan
USA
431 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 4:09:19 PM
|
I would love to homeschool. Our dilemma comes in that we are a blended family. And we are dealing with ex husband and ex wife. So a decision to homeschool would require many courtroom visits. So in the meantime., we do public school.
But many things about public schools make me want to build a schoolhouse on my property and keep the children close to me.
Thanks so much. Just knowing other parents agree with us is very reassuring.
Arttie |
|
|
|
Rosemary
True Blue Farmgirl
1825 Posts
Virginia
USA
1825 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 5:32:44 PM
|
| I'm not a Christian and this offends me. The materialism of Christmas is being reinforced as normal in this program. It *is* normal for a lot of people but I don't think a school -- any school -- shows wisdom in promoting this level of cynicism about it. Older children might get a kick out of it and use it as a chance to exercise their critical thinking skills, but for kids this young? Absolutely not. This is an issue I would be tempted to take to the school board, since the teacher in question is stonewalling you. Have you talked to the principal? That would be the next step before the school board. |
|
|
|
MagnoliaWhisper
True Blue Farmgirl
2817 Posts
Heather
Haysville
Kansas
USA
2817 Posts |
Posted - Dec 04 2012 : 6:16:15 PM
|
Yeah that is the nuts part of those songs chosen Mara. I don't celebrate xmas either. (however, I am christian). But, it seems like that is more and more the mainstreams idea of xmas-spend, spend, spend! Sad on many levels. I am sure the teacher thought they were "cute" songs though. It's just arg, so not what I would want my children to be learning. OTOH, she probably will get criticism almost about any song, from some one. lol
http://www.heathersprairie.blogspot.com |
|
|
|
jenne.f
True Blue Farmgirl
643 Posts
Jenne
Wagontown
PA
USA
643 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2012 : 1:28:24 PM
|
Arttie,
Good news. I am so glad you spoke up. We really need to
to this to protect our children.
~blessings~
Jenne
"Follow your bliss"
Farmgirl sister #4616 |
|
|
|
laurzgot
True Blue Farmgirl
1691 Posts
Laurie
Alvin
Texas
USA
1691 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2012 : 5:31:41 PM
|
Artie, I agree with all of the above. What our sisters say. It is giving the wrong impression of Christmas and what the meaning is. Know wonder why there is bulling, etc. My children are grown. I do have a granddaughter and it is appalling to hear about that. I would cert anly talk with the school ASAP.
Laurie
"Smile and be yourself everyday"
Country girl at heart
Laurie
Aprons and More by Laurie is on my FB page |
|
|
|
darlenelovesart
True Blue Farmgirl
7625 Posts
darlene
Loleta
California
USA
7625 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2012 : 10:14:49 PM
|
I am so glad that my daughter was raised at a time when Christmas was still in the program. That has changed since she went there unfortunately but it is sad and it really ruins the meaning of the songs that were written their original way.
I agree Nini, I think that ACLJ would have taken it on if they needed to. I really think the way the ACLU is working they would have been happy to what was happening and put that as one more thing they have ruined under their belt. they go after everything they can to remove it. I am glad the school decided to remove that from the program.
I would have home schooled my daughter if I had been able to do it but I couldn't but I was there involved with her in her school in everyway I could so that she did not have the influence that she could have had. Public school does change your children alot so even if you can't home school you should be very aware what is happening in their live. People just have to make time to do that if they want them to grow up to be responsible caring adults. It is not easy raising a child but it can be done
darlene
I have learned that to have a good friend is the purest of all God's gifts, for it is a love that has no exchange of payment.
by Frances Farmer |
|
|
|
texdane
Farmgirl Legend Chapter Leader Chapter Guru
4658 Posts
Nicole
Sandy Hook
CT
USA
4658 Posts |
Posted - Dec 07 2012 : 04:41:59 AM
|
I am so glad to hear the program was changed. It's bad enough that the stores are open Thanksgiving, and now on Christmas afternoon as well. Kudos to the parents who stood up and voiced what they thought was inappropriate.
Nicole
Farmgirl Sister #1155
KNITTER, JAM-MAKER AND MOM EXTRAORDINAIRE
Chapter Leader, Connecticut Simpler Life Sisters
Suburban Farmgirl Blogger
http://sfgblog.maryjanesfarm.org/ |
|
|
|
AmethystRose
True Blue Farmgirl
254 Posts
Rosemary
Huntingdon
PA
USA
254 Posts |
Posted - Dec 10 2012 : 12:42:43 PM
|
Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree
What happened to your splendor?
Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree
You're not as we remember
You can't be blamed
They should be shamed
For displaying you in September. |
|
|
|
Bear5
True Blue Farmgirl
13055 Posts
Louisiana/Texas
USA
13055 Posts |
Posted - Dec 10 2012 : 5:19:59 PM
|
I'd love to comment, however, I'd probably get thrown out of here. I don't like it one bit. I'd homeschool asap!!!
Marly
"It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up- that we will begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had." Elisabeth Kurler-Ross |
|
|
|
princesspatches
True Blue Farmgirl
431 Posts
arttie
iron mountain
michigan
USA
431 Posts |
Posted - Dec 11 2012 : 03:52:39 AM
|
Well, the program got changed. But the teacher is really bent out of shape over it. She wrote a scathing letter and put it in the local newspaper. She feels that parents are dictating the curriculum and telling the teachers how to teach. And that the voice of a few parents had ruined a fun program for all. And how she doesn't get paid to do the program in the evening but does it for the benifit of the working parents.
I guess I am looking forward to going to the program next week to see her attitude with the kids.
Arttie |
|
|
|
Keeping in Touch: What do you think of this???? |
|
What do you think of this????
