To the editor:

As an alumnus of Gustine High School, a Merced County taxpayer and a taxpayer in the Gustine school district, I was appalled to read about the senior pranks that have taken place at Gustine High.

The graffiti, breaking into buildings, textbooks destroyed, the ag program animals let out of their pens, and the death of one of the animals.

The estimated cost of the damage is about $4,500.

Who is supposed to pay for all this damage?

Is it the taxpayer?

Police Chief Stavrowsky was quoted as saying senior pranks are going to happen. Is the 2008 event going to be a stepping stone for even more damage and so-called pranks in 2009?

It seems that each year must outdo the last year.

Because some of these seniors come from families prominent in the community, they will only receive a slap on the hand and still get to participate in their graduation ceremony and other senior activities.

With this kind of reprimand, the kids learn that they can get away with anything and not embarrass the parents.

The Modesto Bee reported that a senior in Ceres was forced to miss his graduation ceremony for such “senior pranks.”

Until there is a severe sentence, such as disqualifying participation in their own graduation ceremony or any other senior activity, and paying for all damages done, this kind of conduct will continue.

They must learn there are consequences for everyone’s actions.

Betty Hansen, Modesto

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