Don't blame the messenger

As a journalist, current law student and an American who believes deeply in the Constitution, I was virtually sickened by the reaction of our school board to The Acorn story, "Lupin Hill students charged in sex case" (Nov. 8).

I have two children at Lupin Hill and am just as concerned as anybody about what goes on--or doesn't--between the boys in the bathrooms.

The school doesn't want to be under a microscope or have a lawsuit on its back--who does? But to circulate a letter to parents that The Acorn story was "inflammatory" and "untrue" was beyond the pale.

The Acorn reported the facts: There was a sheriff's investigation into some boys' behavior in the bathroom. The school suspended at least one kid, I understand. These things are true. The Acorn, I am sure, tried to get the school on the record, but without comment.

On behalf of myself and my two children at Lupin Hill, who have been hearing at school about how "the press is to blame," I apologize about the libelous statements that our representatives are circulating about your fine publication.

I am truly saddened my children are witnessing the age-old game "blame the messenger." But I made sure to show them a copy of Thomas Jefferson's First Amendment and tried to explain the real facts of life.
Linda Massarella
Calabasas