Waynesboro School Board Votes To Give Superintendent Authority To Review High School Productions

A school board in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania voted unanimously this week to give Superintendent Todd Kline authority to review theatrical content before it is performed for audiences.

The vote gives the superintendent the option to approve or disapprove all high school productions to ensure content is appropriate for the public.

The provision was brought forth following a production of the classic musical The Pajama Game.

Board member Stephen Kulla brought the matter to the board after community members allegedly expressed displeasure with parts of the play dealing with the issue of sexual harassment in the workplace.

According to Kulla, "People said the theme of the show is not appropriate to be heard," adding. "It's not appropriate in (2019)."

Several members of the school board noted that they had heard no such complaints about the production.

Board member Beth Reecher said, "I saw the play, and I did not find it offensive, Everything I heard was positive. ...I just don't think we need to censor every play."

It was suggested that a special committee be formed to review potential productions. Board members deemed the measure unnecessary, before voting to allow KIine to review potential plays.

Kline says there is "nothing abnormal" about the rule, comparing it to the review of school curriculum before it is introduced.

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