A reality based independent journal of observation & analysis, serving the Flathead Valley & Montana since 2006. © James Conner.

17 May 2016

FHS Class of 2016 won’t be remembered as hooligans

Flathead High School’s senior class of 2016 is not responsible for the criminal behavior of the 21 hooligans who broke into and damaged FHS on 10 May. The vandalism was not a class project. Rather, it was a criminal conspiracy to break into and damage a public building that was carried out independently by people it appears are also FHS students.

Therefore, there is no reason for members of the FHS Class of 2016 to try to make amends for the crimes of the Gang of 21. That some members of that class believe they have such a duty speaks well of their fundamental decency, but also suggests they are having difficulty analyzing the situation objectively.

The reputation of the Class of 2016 rests not on the behavior of the 21 crooks — I’m not going to call them pranksters, and no one else should, either — who damaged the school, but on the conduct of 2016’s cohort throughout its journey from pre-school and kindergarten to their graduation this spring. Overall, that conduct has been meritorious, and the event of 10 May notwithstanding, it is that long record that defines the class and for which these students will be remembered.

So, the 20 May public relations event really isn’t necessary. But it’s proof that most of the Class of 2016 have the right instincts. If I develop a craving for a hot dog that evening, I might just drop by, say hello, and offer my congratulations.