Unknowingly, the perpetrators of a despicable act of vandalism in George Lane Park in High River missed their target and it should be their undoing.
On Friday morning as preparations were being made for Highwood High School’s graduation ceremony Town of High River staff discovered graffiti in the park; much of it rude comments regarding Highwood’s principal.
Volunteers and employees of the Foothills School Division and Town worked diligently through the morning to repair the damage so it would not be seen during the graduation ceremony.
The vandalism may have been aimed directly at the school’s principal, but a shameful act by one or more youth nearly ruined graduation for the Class of 2012 as well.
The students were not impressed.
Kingston showed astounding resolve saying she was determined the actions of the vandals would not ruin the day.
However, what the vandals did not count on was the pride of the Highwood students.
When word spread of the graffiti — and news travels fast among today’s youth — it upset many of the students who were angry someone tried to ruin a celebration 12 years in the making.
It was all over Twitter and facebook on Friday as students discussed the incident.
As a result, it is unlikely if any students know who did this deplorable act they will not keep it a secret and notify the authorities.
One only hopes the students realize whoever spraypainted swastikas and the rude graffiti in the park needs to be prosecuted.
If anyone does indeed know who did this they must step forward and either tell their principal or the High River RCMP.
This was more than a simple graduation prank.
First, the comments made towards Highwood’s principal were extremely hurtful and classless.
Secondly, the vandalism may have been targeted towards one individual, but it nearly ruined the day for dozens of students celebrating one of the best days of their lives. Even now, many are talking about the vandals rather than the graduates.
Lastly, the use of the swastikas is disappointing. RCMP do not believe this was a hate crime and the symbol was merely used for shock value. However, today’s youth should understand what the swastika represents — it is not something to joke about.
The youth who disrupted Highwood’s grad will be caught and punishment should be more than a few weeks detention.
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