School yanks down controversial locker room sign

School leaders at Owen Valley High School in Spencer pulled down a sign Monday, after concerns its message might be taken the wrong way.

The sign, at least two years old, used to hang above the showers in a locker room and read: "What is said here – What is done here – Let it stay here – When you leave here!"

Some parents said they were alarmed when they saw it, saying it sends an irresponsible message in the wake of allegations of child molestation at Penn State and Syracuse Universities and with the fresh memory of hazing allegations at Owen Valley High.

"It's very disturbing," said Owen Valley High parent Shelly Leonard. "It's not right or appropriate even."


Another parent, April Swaim, wasn't sure what to make of it, but did not feel comfortable.

"I don't know if I like it, not very good wording," said Swain. "Kind of sounds like we are keeping secrets."

Leaders at the school saw the writing on the wall and took action by pulling the sign down.

Spencer-Owen Community Schools Superintendent Greg Linton sent this statement to Fox59 News:

"It is the intent of Spencer-Owen Community Schools to provide a safe and motivating environment in the classroom and in our athletic programs. This sign does not facilitate that goal and has been removed."

"I'm glad to see that he responded so quickly," said Leonard.

Not everyone thought there was malice in the message. Swaim's son, Zach, who is a sophomore at the high school, read the sign differently.

"I think that the memory of all the students should stay here even when you leave," said Zach Swaim.

Still, he understood why his mother and school leaders were concerned.

"It was a good idea to take it down, 'cause it can be misconstrued," said April Swaim.