Parks Department halts dance program
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, February 7th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – The Pendleton Parks and Recreation Department announced on the city’s Facebook page yesterday that it is cancelling the cheer program for the remainder of the season.
“A substantial amount of discussion has taken place on social media regarding the song choice for the Jr. Cheer Program,” the announcement stated. “In light of the division this has caused, Pendleton Parks and Recreation leadership has made the tough decision to cancel the cheer program for the remainder of the season. The safety and well-being of the children in the Parks and Recreation programs remains the top priority.”
Parks and rec officials say they will develop a policy for selecting music for their programs that “attempts to address the wide range of viewpoints held by our customers.” In the future, classes with performances or recitals will include staff first soliciting feedback from the parents early on to avoid a situation like this happening again.
All families registered for the Jr. Cheer program will receive either a full refund or credit.
