As this student’s school counselor, I’ve had the privilege of watching them grow and navigate the complicated journey of adolescence. What happened on “Senior Prank Day” was deeply disappointing and caused real harm—there’s no denying that. But I want to acknowledge something else just as important: the courage and integrity it took for this student’s father, Mr. Clow, to share such a raw and honest reflection with our community.
Too often, we see families retreat in the face of discipline or controversy. Mr. Clow instead chose to step forward, not to excuse the behavior, but to reflect on it, confront it and model what it means to take ownership and grow. That, too, is a teachable moment.
Mistakes, especially in our teenage years, do not define us. How we respond to them does. This student faced serious consequences and a great deal of public accountability. And yet, they showed remorse, took responsibility and accepted the gravity of their actions. The family did not ask to be let off the hook. They asked to be heard, to be held accountable and to be given the chance to make things right…