The Iroquois Central School District in Elma has updated its school dance policy. Iroquois High School students can no longer 'twerk' or 'grind' as part of their dance moves.
"Those are the vernaculars that are used today for are considered sexually suggested dancing," said Douglas Scofield, Schools Superintendent.
Scofield explained at a past dance, the high school hosted, there were some behavior issues.
"I don't think the students were ever out of control, but there were a couple of behavior issues at the last dance. Ironically, it really wasn't centered on the type of dancing they were doing," noted Scofield.
Monitoring for alcohol is also a key part of the district dance rules. All students will be also required to take the "Alco-Sensor" upon admission to the dance to detect any alcohol use.
"A breath sensor that they just have to breathe over and if there is any alcohol on them, then it would register on the sensor," said Scofield.
Scofield stressed the need to make the dances safe for all students attending.
"We always go back and we look at what could make the event better, what would make it safer for students, what would allow for students to have more fun," explained Scofield.
Parents also asked to attend a mandatory drug and alcohol awareness program. Superintendent Scofield said it will provide parents with the latest drug abuse information and behaviors to recognize. The program is being facilitated by High School Principal Dennis Kenney.
"By exposing parents to what to look for, this pro-active approach will help them to learn what their children are being exposed to," stated Scofield. "I really believe the school district responsibility is to be responsive to the community."