Letter: Outcry Over "Silent Night" Drowns Out Children's Concert

     I am a proud Kings Parker. I walked through the halls of the Kings Park Schools, and learned in the classrooms. My name is proudly engraved on two plaques in the High School, and one is for recognition in music. 

            My children attend school in this town. I wanted my children to live in a town like Kings Park. I am fortunate to be able to bring my children up here.  To me, Kings Park is different than other towns. To me, Kings Parkers seem to care a little bit more. Kings Parkers seem to have a little more “maroon and white” spirit. Kings Parkers come together in amazing ways when we need to, whether it be for someone sick in the town, or for happier occasions, like homecoming or celebrating the Fire Department’s 100th Anniversary. I would love to say that we “made the news” for one of those wonderful reasons. So people could see how amazing and wonderful our town is. However, last night, we made the news for other reasons. And it makes me sad.

My children are being brought up in a Catholic home. I volunteer my time each week to teach religion at St. Joseph’s Church. My children know the real reason that we celebrate Christmas. It is an important part of our lives. They know many Christmas carols. 

When I attended the 5th grade RJO Intermediate School concert last week, I was overjoyed. I was so proud of my daughter, and of all the 5th-graders. I am consistently amazed at how far they have come in a short amount of time. My daughter has been playing the trumpet for only a year and a half. The RJO band was incredible! When I heard the chorus sing “Silent Night,” I was happy. I was happy that a Christmas Carol, (although edited), was sung at a public school concert. It made me smile. In a world where people are afraid to say “Merry Christmas,” and have “Winter Parties” instead of “Holiday Parties,” I heard a Christmas carol. Honestly, I was thrilled.

The real news of the RJO Intermediate School Winter Concert last week was the children, and their accomplishments. They work so hard, and are so determined. They are excited to learn about music. That is what should have been on the news last night. How proud we are as parents, and how exciting their journey in music will be. I am excited for the future of the Kings Park Music Department, and we all should be. The teachers deserve credit for what these student are able to accomplish. As an audience member of such a wonderful concert, it is hard to remember that these students meet once a week for a few months, and are able to achieve great things, with the help of their teachers. The teachers and students should be applauded. 

When my 5th grader saw the news last night, she was excited to see herself on television. When we discussed exactly why her school was on the evening news, her response was, “I don’t get it. It’s a public school, mom! We can’t sing about Jesus in a public school.” I am so proud of her ability to understand this difficult concept.

During this season, I teach my children about the magic of Christmas. The magic of the birth of Jesus. The magic of Santa Claus. The magic of food pantries being full. The magic of people being nicer to each other. The magic of music at an intermediate school concert. It was truly a magical experience.  One I am proud and thankful I could be a part of. I am thankful for her magical music teachers. All of them.

SINGcerely,                                                                                    Cynthia Grimley