School bans breast awareness bracelets

West Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - A West Haven mom is outraged that her children might get punished at school for wearing bracelets she says promote breast cancer awareness, but apparently some school administrators say the message is not appropriate and goes too far.

At first glance, the message on the rubber bracelet may spark a smirk or a giggle. But the woman, who asked to remain anonymous, says her son and daughter bought the bracelets for a reason.

“Because my mom had breast cancer, my sister also had breast cancer. My mom passed away in January of breast cancer.” she told News 8.

The bracelets, sold at local stores, are a product of a non-profit company called Keep-A-Breast.org . The California-based group says their mission is to educate children about the importance of early detection and prevention of breast cancer.

But both of the woman’s children, one at Bailey Middle School and the other at Carrigan, were told if they wear them again punishment will follow.

“Are not allowed because of the fact they say 'boobies' and that's offensive, and that's going to get the boys to look at boobies,” she said. “My son got his taken away one day, then given back. My daughter got hers taken away and had consequences to go with it.”

The consequences? "She wouldn't get it back for the next day, or she would be suspended from school."

She said she’s advising them to wear it because the bracelets are for a good cause.

West Haven school officials could not be reached for comment, but this mother hopes more parents will join the debate.

When asked what she thought her mother would say about this, the West Haven mom said "I think she would say this is a bunch of bull***t. That's what she would say. She's probably saying it right now."

The mother's children told News 8 they were told wearing the bracelets violates the school dress code.

A little research on the web will reveal a few other school districts in this country have done the same thing.

West Haven Superintendent Neil Cavallaro says it has been mostly 5th through 8th grade students whom have been wearing the bracelets. Students have not been disciplined for wearing them, but if a teacher notices the student wearing one, the teacher will ask the student to either remove the bracelet or to turn it inside out. If the student does not comply, then the teacher would confiscate the bracelet.

The schools have contacted the American Cancer Society who says it has not received any proceeds from the bracelets. He says he believes the schools have been acting appropriately