Enfield BOE votes not to appeal

Enfield, Conn. (AP/WTNH) - Enfield school officials have narrowly voted not to appeal a federal judge's ruling against plans to hold high school graduations in a megachurch. 

The Enfield School Board voted 5-4 Thursday night, meaning graduation will be held on school grounds this year.

However, many students are upset because they say they can't bring their whole family because of the limited space. "Everybody is pretty much fed up about it and they just want to get their diploma," said graduating student Denna Betournaoi. "Half of them don't even want to walk for graduation."

"We have 13 people with plane tickets that are flying in to see her graduate, now my husband and I will be inside, but she has three sisters who will be at home or outside on the curb," said Kim Rotatori a parent of a graduating senior.

A federal judge in Bridgeport issued a preliminary injunction Monday, barring graduation in First Cathedral on June 23 and June 24 until she holds a full hearing on the legal issues. She said an observer would perceive the message that Enfield endorsed the church's religious views.

In the past, Enfield has held its graduation at a cathedral to accommodate the budget and the large number of people who wish to attend. The ACLU and two parents fought the decision claiming separation of Church and State. "I am an atheist and I shouldn't have to be subjected to have to go to a religious place to see my daughter graduate," said Jennifer Bruyette of Enfield.

David J. McGuire of the American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut, which represented two students suing to stop the ceremonies in the church, says the board's vote was "the right thing for the students and for the community."

A lawyer for the school district did not immediately return a call for comment.