Created: 2/25/2005 12:36:49 AM 
By Jennifer Brice First Coast News
CLAY COUNTY, FL -- A high school senior has grabbed the attention of the First Coast. It was standing room only as the community confronted the Clay County School Board.
It was all for Fleming High School senior Kelli Davis. The school says it will not publish her senior picture because she wore a tuxedo instead of the traditional drape.
Hundreds of people went to the school board meeting to hear her mother, Cindy Davis speak.
"What is so offensive about this picture?" she asked holding her tuxedo clad daughter's photo in her hand. "Who would have ever noticed her attire?"
The school board says the clothing breaks school tradition.
More than 25 people also approached the podium to speak out, like Clay County resident James Stewart.
"Young ladies wear one thing and young men wear something else. If you choose not to do that, you're out of line," Stewart said.
Amanda Johnson drove from Tallahassee for the meeting. She brought her senior yearbook from 1999.
"This is my yearbook from Broward County. I too appeared in a tux," she said.
Some students even showed up in tuxedos as a sign of support. But it was Superintendent David Owens who had the final word.
"My decision is that I stand by the Principal's decision. Her picture will not be in the senior yearbook," he said.
Kelli Davis says she expected the outcome.
"But listening to the people talk shows how much support I have in this community," Davis explained.
Related article:
Interview: Fleming High School Principal Discusses Tuxedo Controversy ©2009 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.
