"English-Only" Rule Leads to Lawsuit

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Posted: 10:12 PM May 19, 2008
Last Updated: 11:08 PM May 19, 2008
Reporter: Deb Farris
Email Address: deb.farris@kake.com

90 comments

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A legal battle is brewing between local parents and the Wichita Catholic Diocese.

Michael and Clara Silva along with 4 other families filed a discrimination lawsuit against St. Anne Catholic School and the Catholic Diocese.
Last fall the school implemented a rule saying "no native language other than English is to be spoken during school hours."

The Silva's 11 year old son Adam is bilingual. They say it's a violation of his rights not to speak Spanish.

"When you have 4 boys targeted if they use a Spanish word and you make them sit at other tables, that's discrimination," said Michael Silva.

The Catholic Diocese says it isn't trying to discriminate against anyone, it's just trying to keep students from saying bad things about others.

"Even though English is their first language, they use Spanish to talk about others, so that you can't hear or understand what they are saying about you," said Fred Solis, the spokesperson for the Catholic Diocese of Wichita.

Adam Silva now goes to another Catholic school in Wichita, claiming he was expelled for not following the "English only" rule. The school says he was not expelled, but agreed that he should transfer schools.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: dee Location: kansas on Aug 18, 2008 at 10:32 AM
are we forgetting that catholic school sets many rules and codes in order to make all of there students conform to a standard. Boys have to be clean shaven (HS) The uniforms no jewelry etc. They do not want anything to get in the way of the children focusing on their studies and faith. I think if you want your child to express there individuality catholic school is not the place to do it. We forget how lucky we as wichitans are. Our catholic schools are not tuition based but tithing based. If everyone starts sewing them over freedom of expression and speech then they will have to start charging tuition and then we all will suffer. They were using Spanish inappropriately. It was disrupting class’s bottom line. So they made a policy to protect the school as a whole. You know if I was in a classroom and the people behind me were speaking a language I did not know and giggling that would make my alienated and uncomfortable and would be distracting.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Kansas on Aug 16, 2008 at 09:29 AM
Shame on the parents for not teaching their kids that rules must be followed! I don't always like the speed limit but I have to follow the rules or I'll get a ticket. We as parents must teach kids that rules are the law and we have to follow them! This case hase nothing to do with language but respect for the rules. St Anne's is a private school, if you don't like their rules move on!!

Posted by: fallingfast on May 25, 2008 at 09:46 AM
The spanish people were told not speak english. This would force companies to hire more spanish people to accomodate them. Bottom line is white people are "Settlers" and latin people are "Conquers". People are flooding into this country for economic reasons. They are after the $$$ no matter how they get it! Get used to it, it is only going to get worse!!

Posted by: Anonymous on May 23, 2008 at 10:01 PM
If I went to your house I would follow the rules you set out of respect. I guess that may be the problem. For the people saying I am brown bla bla bla, it comes down to, do what is asked. I do not believe he was being forced to go to that school. The parents removed him end of problem, but no lets sue.It does not matter if the student was green, speaking French. People get over it, it has nothing to do with race.

Posted by: Lighter Shade of Brown : ) on May 23, 2008 at 02:19 PM
Anonymous for your info I do speak English and I'm very great at it!! Sometimes people even think I'm white.. I'm also aware that we have our own money system, why would we use pesos??? DUH... You're right America is great, we have the freedom of speech... So we will see you.. :)

Posted by: Anonymous on May 23, 2008 at 01:09 PM
Whats next sue my Pastor since he is not speaking spanish. No go somewhere else that is the great thing about America. We have choices, where to eat, where we go to school, where we go to church. These are the reasons we are going in the wrong direction.

Posted by: Smack Location: Wichita on May 23, 2008 at 11:28 AM
Rules you are correct that the main argument is the rules. Sometimes disscusions change topics and go other places however. This one went other places and I and others chose to comment on it. Maybe looking down from your high horse you didnt see that, or perhaps you are the one who lacks intelligence, or perhaps you are a bore.

Posted by: unknown Location: ks on May 23, 2008 at 10:27 AM
Cliff are you the one to break the latin rule with letting out the secerts. Also, "If" the Cathilic church has done that then i bet they were adults and not kids.Hummmm!And behind close doors. Now cliff your comments are getting silly.I call it reaching out and protecting the GUILTY.And they must be pretty good people to allow themselves to look after the people that really needs them.To the catholic churches keep helping the ones that needs and wants your help.I don't think CLIFF IS A TRUE CATHOLIC TO0 BLOG SOMETHING LIKE THAT.shame on you.

Posted by: unknown Location: ks on May 23, 2008 at 08:04 AM
challenging a rule is one thing, why now after a child could not follow them. The rule has been effect for a while and it wasn't a problem in the beginning why now is it a problem.

Posted by: Human of color Location: wichita on May 22, 2008 at 07:59 PM
It seems as though ignorance also prevails in this town among the majority as well as I repeat, that we are all equal amongst the eyes of God regardless of color, the way we look or speak. Please remind yourselves who do not understand that no one is superior to anyone else and that a rule in place, does not necessarily make it a correct rule, and must be challenged if wrong..........

Posted by: unknown Location: ks on May 22, 2008 at 07:23 PM
RULES thank-you for wording it so correct. Cause I see alot of bitterness on what should not be a factor.

Posted by: Rules Location: ICT on May 22, 2008 at 04:37 PM
How sad that all the people on here missed the point. It has NOTHING to do with his being mexican, it has to do with him NOT following the rules. it has nothing to do with his being an AMERICAN or not, it is about following the RULES. Some of you people need to really grow up, this is the reason that Jerry Springer has a job. Your stupidity is shinning thru. Mr. & Mrs. Silva please stop and think about what you are doing. You are helping no one and making yourselfs look like a joke, please with draw the law suit and have your son and the 3 other boys apologize to the school for breaking the rules. that is the right thing to do...

Posted by: Anonymous on May 22, 2008 at 12:33 PM
Lighter shade of brown, go ahead and take over! Just you realize that the official language of the United States is English. For an example, we do not use pesos here, we use our own money system. Do you expect all of America to start using pesos. That would be silly. By the way since you are writing in english I assume you speak it, so whats the problem? I find your comments more prejudice than any of the others. Thats one great thing about America, if you dont like it you are free to leave and go anywhere in the world you want. So see ya. Bye!,if you dont like it.

Posted by: cliff Location: wichita on May 22, 2008 at 12:24 PM
and this from a church that for centuries used latin to keep all their secrets from the people going to thurch.

Posted by: Lighter Shade Of Brown on May 21, 2008 at 11:00 PM
Wow... As I'm reading these comments I realize how prejudice people are now these days. Don't hate because Mexicans are taking over REALIZE that we are the Majority no longer the Minority!!! We are home like it or not!!

Posted by: Unknown Location: Wichita on May 21, 2008 at 10:34 PM
I have known some Mexicans to have blue eyes and blonde hair. I still believe that if they come to this country they need to learn English so this has NOTHING to do with racism. I also believe that America needs legal immigration because folks who come from nothing really take advantage of our free enterprise system which I think is wonderful. People on both sides are saying silly things. I don't care if someone is from France, Germany, Russia, Vietnam, Mexico, etc the language we speak is English..like it or not. To cater to one group over another isn't right. I also know a few Mexicans who believe Spanish speaking immigrants need to learn English just as their families had to do.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 21, 2008 at 10:26 PM
Plain and simple the school said English only. These are the same loop holes criminals use. If you don't like it find another school. There is no reason to sue just because you don't like the rules.Nice example for your kids.

Posted by: unknown Location: ks on May 21, 2008 at 09:05 PM
I am not jealous of noone and I got hispanic friends and no they are not lazy and they don't want to sue people.However, alot of hispanic women are very jealous of other races.And its not about the tanning bed or the color of jealousy.Its about a law suit that should not be takin place. And heck no I am not WHITE I'M MIXED SO GET OVER IT.pretty is the eye of the beholder. so why do the hispanic men look at other races because its a totally different color or what.cause before too long we are not going to be just one color.I just want to learn all languages not just spanish thank-you very much.Even tho my favorite is Italian.

Posted by: WHATS THE REAL ISSUE Location: WICHITA on May 21, 2008 at 07:31 PM
I REALLY BELIEVE THE PEOPLE WHO ARE SO LOST WITH THIS ISSUE SHOULD SHUT UP! ITS TOO BAD THERE ARE SO MANY PREJUDICE PEOPLE IN WICHITA. ISNT IT FUNNY HOW MANY SUN BEDS ARE SO OVER USED BY PEOPLE WHO WANT TO LOOK DARKER(WHY DO YOU WANT TO LOOK MEXICAN?) ISNT IT FUNNY HOW PEOPLE ARE LEARNING SPANISH TO GET BETTER JOBS(OR AS SOME OF YOU PUT IT MEXICAN) QUIT PICKING ON US MEXICANS! YOU ALL SO DESPERATELY WANT TO LOOK LIKE US.(JEALOUSLY I CALL IT) POOR YOU!

Posted by: Human of color Location: wichita on May 21, 2008 at 05:02 PM
It;s unfortunate that we have yet to achieve in our existence that all were created equal by God, but yet we judge one another on what we look like and speak. I hope and pray that the ignorant will open their eyes and see that we are al the same, regardless. It seems however, especially in this town, that prejudice rules among the majority.

Posted by: HMMMM...... Location: WICHITA KS on May 21, 2008 at 01:38 PM
STOP HATING WHITES!!!!!

Posted by: LATINA Location: WICHITA,KS on May 21, 2008 at 01:29 PM
FOR ALL OF YOU WHO OBVIOUSLY DONT KNOW HOW TO READ OR UNDERSTAND THE WHOLE STORY IT'S NOT ABOUT POWER IT'S ABOUT WHAT IS RIGHT AND I HAVE ALOT OF WHITE FRIENDS WHO ARE FROM THE "UNITED STATES" THAT ARE GOING TO COLLEGE TO LEARN HOW TO SPEAK SPANISH TO MAKE IT IN THE UNITED STATES SO IF THERE WERE SO MANY ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHY ARE THEY ALLOWING IT TO BE LEARNED!!! OBVIOUSLY THERE IS ALOT OF HATRED OUT THERE TORWARDS MEXICAN BUT GUESS WHAT US BROWNS, HISPANICS WHATEVER U WANT TO CALL US WE STICK TOGETHER WE ARE "LA RAZA" WE WILL LIVE FOREVER AND THE POPULATION OF HISPANIC PEOPLE WILL GROW RATHER U LIKE IT OR NOT..... SO ALL YOU ALLS WHO HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY ALL YOUR DOING IS MAKING US STRONGER. LIKE I SAID WE STICK TOGETHER UNLIKE SOME OTHER RACES.

Posted by: Whitey Location: Wichita on May 21, 2008 at 12:38 PM
I dont care if your white,black,red,purple. If you are in America and are not speaking English, then you are a tourist and not an American. PERIOD!!

Posted by: Hmmm Location: Wichita on May 21, 2008 at 11:33 AM
Well, it seems from the way this story was put that KAKE is siding with the Silvas on this. I will not be watching this station as much as I used to.

Posted by: hopeful Location: ks on May 21, 2008 at 07:46 AM
I hope this man reads alot of these people point of views that the Silvas have created.More so I hope a supervisor reads all this and puts him on leave until this is investagated.He works for the system he's not above the system.Also, I feel he and his family needs to apologize for the stir-up they have caused to St. Annes for there son's mishaps.And quit using the media for your gain or loses.Cause to me there are better media stories than a child that can't follow rules, so lets Sue.However, I still would like to know the other ones involved.I have a feeling one of them families and if it is just another scam, scam, scam. But I don't know."just asking"

Posted by: cliff Location: wichita on May 21, 2008 at 07:22 AM
unknown, I speak english, I was born here, my family is from here for many generations. I am a veteran, I dont like all the hate that was raised for political reasons against "illeagles" jsut so some border state politicians could get elected. as for being a groupie, I am a Jesus groupie, not a poiitically correct hate monger. what I do on my time is my conceern, what these kids do on the playground is theirs. as to "talking bad about people" and cussing in spanish, if nobody understands them, how do they know that? or is it just paranoia?

Posted by: ??? Location: Wichita, Kansas on May 21, 2008 at 12:42 AM
I am not considered an American, by some people, because of my skin color. People don't be ignorant- Americans come in all different colors and languages, What is America based on?

Posted by: ??? on May 21, 2008 at 12:38 AM
When asked where I am from I say the United States, but that isn't enough, again the same question "Where are you from?" so now my reply is my parents are from Mexico and I was born in the states. What does this say- you are who you are based on your skin color. The majority of Americans consider an American o be someone who is white skinned with blue eyes,I am neither. So where am I from: The United States of America. Reply to "go home," I am Mexican- American and my home is here, the United States.

Posted by: ?? Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 09:43 PM
The kid was cussing in mexican? Also the stated they paid for their lunches this is not true. Spanish speaking is from Spain. Mexican is what you speak from Mexico. I have friends that are from Spain and they get upset on the illegals from Mexico.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 09:36 PM
Look if you do not respect the English language go home to where you come from. English is the language of America not Spanish or Ebonics. Please that is why you foreigners can't get any respect because you cry discriminatiion at any little thing and always want pity. And the thing is I am foreign. Born in Vietnam but love America and the English language. I am just so sick and tired of these people and their sorry excuses.

Posted by: Shari Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 08:53 PM
I totally agree with the rule of English only. I am sick of people who sue for discrimination based on ethnicity. I want to see the day I can sue for being a white American. I am on disability because I have to be not because I want to be and get barely nothing. EX $10 in Food Stamps While being told if I was another ethnicity or not American Or knocked up I would get a ton. People walk out of SRS with cell phones getting into new cars, wearing new clothes and I live below poverty level with an almost 4000 dollar spend down and 10 dollars a month in Food stamps. The world is going to heck in a had basket. By the way my car has 250,000 miles. A new car in my dreams.

Posted by: unknown Location: ks on May 20, 2008 at 08:37 PM
Cliff and what is your language cause the klan has put up there robes I think. I don't know any of them people.However,To me that guy works for our system and he has done alot of wrong so english/spanish to me its just a bad person trying to get money on a problem that his kid did and probably created this himself. So what better to sue someone. And to put your kid in the limelight and for us tax-payer to pay for his fees.OH YEA, Cliff are you also one of his groupies or WHAT.All I am saying this man and his wife is wrong for ever thinking of doing this.That is it, so deal with it and you have your own theory on this too and I will deal with it.

Posted by: Frog Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 07:16 PM
What were the Silva's thinking going public? Sympathy? Puhleeeease! Going to a private school is a privilege, not a right. If you are unwilling or unable to follow the rules, your privileges are taken away. Yes, the Silva brat has a gift, speaking two languages, but he chose to abuse the gift by being disrespectful. No one has the right to be abusive, in any language. If you think your civil rights are being trampled, why don't you go see true human rights abuses, try Myranmar or Iran. Any way the Silva's and their lawyer can be punished for clogging our legal system with such a frivolous lawsuit?

Posted by: Carmen Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 05:31 PM
Oh!! It is okay to make comercials and big signs in other languages so we can get their business but don't let them speak in their own language because they might be talking about us!

Posted by: I savant Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 05:27 PM
The lawyer better get his money up front because this suit is dead in front of a jury! What a travesty and abuse of the American legal system; a suit like this isn't even possible in messico; go back there and speak spanish

Posted by: Canon Location: Stillwater on May 20, 2008 at 05:02 PM
Let's be fair to everyone, and require everyone in the school to communicate only in Latin.

Posted by: Unknown Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 04:40 PM
Our family is American Indian and our relatives were forced to learn English. Many of the languages are dying out which is a shame. I don't have a problem with teaching children their culture. I have to ask though, why learn English? Businesses and government cater to Spanish speaking folks...they sure didn't for my people. It is really unfair so that is why I say speak your language when you're not in school..it isn't fair to the others.

Posted by: Smack Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 04:24 PM
If you live and work in America, you should speak english, or at least have some ability with it, or at least make an effort to learn some. What is racist about that? Ive been to Italy and Greece. Most of the people overseas speak English as well as their native tongue. They would speak to me in English, but amoungst themselves Italian or Greek. For me to move over there and think I wouldnt have to learn the language, would be pretty dumb, and probably insulting to them, they are very proud of their heritage. Perhaps if there were 1000's of us coming over the border a day into Italy, we would just take over and not care. Again, I dont find that rascist, but why are we now printing most of our products in 2 languages!

Posted by: Gene Location: Hutchinson on May 20, 2008 at 03:45 PM
English should be the only language. Even tho' the kids may not have physically bullied anyone doesn't mean they do not make racial remarks in Spanish.

Posted by: Scott___ on May 20, 2008 at 03:36 PM
they will probably send there lawsuit winnings down to mexico anyways..... thanks to the North American Union, its a all one nation anyways now.... we will all be speaking spanish soon. Freedom of Speech.... just watch your mouth!

Posted by: Anonymous on May 20, 2008 at 03:25 PM
kudos to the parents! Yes English is the primary language spoke in the USA, and this is the childs primary language,with that being said<<< All schools public and non-public require a student to study a foreign language(Its a requirement). Take that to the school board.

Posted by: Josh Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 03:04 PM
I believe that only English should be spoken in all schools, Unless in a foriegn language class, then the language being taught can be spoken. We live in America, our official language is English. If I went to another non-english speaking country, I would be expected to know, or learn the language of that country. Our soldiers don't fight and die for us to speak Spanish, French, or any other language. Those families should shut their traps.

Posted by: Kim Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 02:41 PM
The school had every right to impose that rule. He probably was using spanish to talk badly about someone else. You can tell when someone is talking about you, just because they are using a different language their body language doesn't change. It sounds to me like the parents are spoiled little brats and the apple doesn't usually fall far from the tree. Quit crying and get over it! Rules are rules. They are there for a reason. Kids can be really mean sometimes. Great lesson there Mom and Dad! You don't deserve any settlement for this. Drop the lawsuit and bury your heads in the sand.

Posted by: Tammi Location: Leon on May 20, 2008 at 02:11 PM
Everyone should follow the rules. If the rule says that all children and faculty should speak English, then all children and faculty should speak English. If my kid goes to St. Ann's and start speaking any other language, be it pig latin or French. This is not discrimination. It is simply about following the rules.

Posted by: BC Location: Derby on May 20, 2008 at 02:10 PM
They should speak English at School. This is America speak English !!!

Posted by: cliff Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 01:37 PM
"this is america" what do you know about being an american? these people are Americans. Just as you supposedly are. put your klan robes back in the closet and remember to act as Americans.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 20, 2008 at 01:32 PM
SHAME SHAME ON THAT WHITE ATTORNEY, FOR TAKING THIS CASE you shall not get rewarded

Posted by: Susan Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 12:47 PM
I would venture a guess that this young man bullies his parents too. Kids get consequences at school for reasons. If he can't sit with his buddies at lunch there is a reason. The language issue was just the one they could get to the Courts.

Posted by: Dan on May 20, 2008 at 12:47 PM
Hooray for St Anne Catholic School! This is the USA, if the kids want to speak spanish let them speak it at home.

Posted by: Shawn Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 12:41 PM
WOW I was born in here, family been here for genirations, I speak 4 different langagues because with todays tech I deal with people from all over the world. Again Kansas people show they still live 100 years in the past. I just hope the school does teach foreign langauge for if their kids are to be successful they will need it. for the rest how only know hate, I do feel for you all to bad you can not take in change you are set in your ways you will miss out a lot. Instead of fearing the langague try and learn it this way you know what is being said.

Posted by: cliff Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 12:40 PM
unknown, is english your language? you make less sense than most around here.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 20, 2008 at 12:38 PM
Okay, this is the Catholic school system..NOT THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM!!! Private schools should be able to set their own standards-especially the language. I send my kids to Catholic schools and I think they did the right thing. I pay to send my kids there because of some of the standards they set. These parents are only teaching this kid that it is alright to break the rules in the name of heritage and when he does break the rules, sue someone because it is supposedly unfair! If you want your kid to have language freedom..then put him in the public schools and give the spot that he is taking up to an English speaking student in the Catholic School. Or, go back to Mexico!!

Posted by: Mike Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 12:27 PM
What a sad point we have come to when the lawsuit lottery players start going after their own churches. Get rich quick, sue anyone! It is a shame to see people acting so contrary to the beliefs they espouse. Christians stumble like anyone else, I hope these people get back on track soon.

Posted by: KN Location: Augusta on May 20, 2008 at 12:07 PM
I speak English. In Mexico and they speak spanish. I think I'll file a lawsuit against that Mexican store I was at in Mexico. How dare those spanish speaking Mexicans speak spanish in Mexico! Sheesh!

Posted by: cliff Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 12:03 PM
And you had better speak english in your own home too,or the anti everything hate groups will get you! put your klan robes back in the closet till next time a polititian wants you to hate someone for votes.

Posted by: UNKNOWN Location: KS on May 20, 2008 at 11:40 AM
We teach other languages so that we can go to other countries and understand what they are saying.That's not what this is about what I see this is about.This about money and there parents beliefs at there kids troubled bitter parents.What better way to get something across PUT YOUR KIDS IN THE HATRED OF THE PARENTS.This should show us law obeying parents watch out cause the ones that will never be us to be so bitter at whatever is eating them to be so bitter.Us americans are not perfect but neither are you. So quite making more out of the situation and let your kid take his punishment.

Posted by: Mike Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 11:38 AM
These parents need to stop being so naive to the fact that their kids probably were bullying and speaking negatively of others. Why would they want to hide what they were saying if they weren't? This whole situation comes down to the "HUGE" problem that is facing this country. "I don't have to follow the rules set forth by my superiors b/c my lawyers say i can do what i want." This is just another ploy by worthless citizens and worthless parents to get something for free. Shame on the parents for supporting their kids in the breaking of rules and shame on the lawyers that waste our tax dollars on senseless issues like this. They didn't tell them they were bad kids for knowing another language. They told them they are bad kids for using that language against others. QUIT BEING SO NAIVE MR. AND MRS. SILVA. YOU'RE KIDS AREN'T PERFECT. NO ONES KIDS ARE. THAT'S WHY THEY ARE KIDS THEY DO STUPID THINGS SOMETIMES. THAT'S WHY IT'S YOUR JOB TO CORRECT THEM!!!!

Posted by: Pam Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 11:29 AM
I have children in the Catholic School system and I support the decision made by the school. These kids need to speak English. Immigrants need to come to America with the idea that they must assimilate to our country. We should not have to accomidate them and I am getting real tired of having to make sure that all literature going out is bilingual. Why do we have to purchase a text book that has both English and Spanish in it??? Speak English or go back home. Also,take your flags with you....if you are wanting to be in America, fly the American Flag!!! Finally, we, as Americans, really need to stand up and tell the government that we are not going to bend over and let the country be taken over...I for one do not want to pay for them!!!

Posted by: Ronda on May 20, 2008 at 11:15 AM
This is America! If they want their NATIVE heritage, than they need to go back to THEIR COUNTRY and live in THEIR Heritage. The parents are setting a bad example of not teaching their children to follow rules. So now when the kids get in trouble they will go to mommy and daddy and complain and them mommy and daddy will go to the authority to bend the rules for them. I agree with the school that it can cause bullying- b/c since this is America and English is the American language and if somebody says something in a foreign tongue and you do not know what it is b/c you do not speak that language- I would find that offensive. If people want to live in America, than they should be proud of our country and respect it b/c evidentally they were not happy where they were. The reason why they teach different languages in schools is so you can become a well rounded student, so when you go to visit that country, you can enjoy and share the heritage-which means speak the language of where you live.

Posted by: Kandy on May 20, 2008 at 11:02 AM
THIS IS AMERICA...speak English, learn English, or go back to where you came from. Why are we forced to adapt to the immigrants? I thought this country was formed by people willing to do anything to become an American..including learning our language and culture. I would have a lot more sympathy for immigrants if they were actually trying to become American, instead of trying to make us accomodate them.

Posted by: unknown Location: ks on May 20, 2008 at 10:57 AM
just think this family man works in our system and has a important duty to preform so if he can't perform his job with the truth how in the heck can I think he's telling the truth about what has really happened. Our system is full of lies and sometimes people like that, just can let LIES roll off there tougue.But more so HOW THE HECK CAN YOU SLEEP AT NIGHT KNOWING THIS IS ANOTHER LIE FLOWING OUT OF YOUR MOUTH.YOU CAN TAKE A PAYCHECK FROM AN ENGLISH SPEAKING PERSON (ITS NOT ABOUT COLOR ITS ABOUT THE AMERICAN WAYS) ALL BUT YOU WANT TO SUE FOR A CHILD THAT CAN'T FOLLOW RULES. GO GO FIGURE!!!!! WHO YOUR FOLLOWERS?????OR GROUPIES OR WHO OWES YOU FOR YOU TO COVER-UP THE WRONG THEY HAVE DONE.

Posted by: michelle Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 10:39 AM
I support the decision. I think it's valid. Even though the kids are bi-lingual, which is also good because it does come in handy at times, there are rules to be followed. You break the rules, you should get punished.

Posted by: ?? Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 10:36 AM
If they dont want kids to speak other languages then why do they teach foreign languages in school, freedom of speech no matter what language you speak!!! and just because you speak spanish doesnt mean that you are from Mexico, people like to assume way to much!!!

Posted by: Michael Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 10:27 AM
I just have one question, is the law suit filed to get there son back in school or are they looking to get some money out of this deal. If they take a single dime then this law suit was only to get money and nothing to due with there son breaking the rules.

Posted by: Jim Location: Harper on May 20, 2008 at 10:25 AM
I support the schools decision. This is an English speaking country. I haven't heard of any other countries altering their culture (specifically their language) because of immigrants. Also, I was under the impression people wanted to come here to improve the quality of their own lives. Dragging us down to the level of the third-world countries they left behind doesn't exactly sound like an improvement to me.

Posted by: Joe Location: ICT Kansas on May 20, 2008 at 10:16 AM
It was the RULE, so why can't there kids follow the rules just like the other kids that did follow the RULES??? If they can't follow the RULES, then the school has the full right to punish the kids as it sees fit, including asking them to leave. Once again parents protecting there kids, instead of punishing them for breaking the rules. What kind of message does that send to there kid??? It's ok to break the rules, your better than them so do what you want. I say that they take all 4 of them to the boiler room and give them all SWATS... Bet they don't do it again. Also to the parents, quit hiding behind the court system, with this type of BS. Grow up and teach your kids how to follow the rules.

Posted by: cliff Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 09:42 AM
they are where they came from. if you read the article, it says english is their first language. That is, if you can read through all the hate.

Posted by: proudamerican Location: GB on May 20, 2008 at 09:25 AM
I have read this article and the one on KSN. First there is no violation of rights when it comes to being able to speak spanish. Second, they are trying to say that they are not talking in spanish negativly about others. YES you are, now you are just mad that you can't get away with it. The parents are doing the same thing that is why they are upset as well. On the other news article they make a quote about how they feel like they are not wanted, guess what...your not. How do you think we feel about you coming into our schools and trying to tell us we have to let you speak your native tounge and discriminate agaist those of us who speak english. Your nationality is the only one that comes here and refuses to speak english and follow our rules. This is just another way for your group to get some easy money witout having to do anything for it.

Posted by: Enlightenment Location: Earth on May 20, 2008 at 09:25 AM
Mexican Immigrants Do Not Assimilate Quickly in US, Study Finds: http://bsimmons.wordpress.com/2008/05/15/mexican-immigrants-do-not-assimilate-quickly-in-us-study-finds/ If you don't want to learn or speak english, then don't come to USA. We don't care where the heck you came from, either assimilate or get out! My non-english speaking relatives came to the USA and learned english and thus our entire family only speaks english.

Posted by: brian Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 09:08 AM
You are in our country now reaping the benefits and freedoms that we have worked and died for. I am sick and tired of all these B.S. discrimination suits!! Live by our rules leave your flags at home and shut up or get out!!!!

Posted by: INKNOWN Location: KS on May 20, 2008 at 09:07 AM
this policy has been since Sept 07.Why now are you wanting a law suit? Rules are Rules and NOW You DON'T like it then, why now is it a problem. You put your kids in a school (private)for the teaching and not over-crowding. My concern is that what are you more angry about the rules (that has been into effect since Sept or just because your child was mad and use your way of thinking to define his peers.Thats not right either. What are you as a parent teaching your kids? If you don't like something then sue and make us tax-payers pay for your beliefs. To me thats CRAZY....or better yet WHAT A GREAT PARENT!!!!!

Posted by: TB Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 08:58 AM
Speak ENGLISH or leave.

Posted by: AJ Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 08:57 AM
In the USA we speak ENGLISH Other ripoff to get money. If you can't follow the rules in a private school go to the public schools they use are hard earned money to cowtow to stupid things like this then try to sell a bond issue. If you can't due the walk go back to Mexico and stay. Some citzens are concering a Bosten tea Party.

Posted by: unknown Location: ks on May 20, 2008 at 08:51 AM
why is it only a dectective to place a lawsuit and its family. Cause I no for a fact if it was just a normal citizen we would be out-casted hummm. We are only keeping the anger over something that all of us has to live with ( THE COLOR OF OUR SKIN) TO THE DETECTIVE (SILVA) AND HIS FAMILY so what your child got kicked out is there really more to this story and who are the other families that wants a law suit.I have got to wonder, you got clout and the rest follows.WHO ARE THEY AND DO THEY GO TO THAT CATHOLIC CHURCH.YOU LIE AND THEY FOLLOW.SO TO ME GET OVER YOUR ANGER AND HOW LONG HAS YOUR SON WENT TO THIS SCHOOL.AND NOW THERE'S A PROBLEM HUMMM. JUST ASKING!!!!!

Posted by: Bayley Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 08:45 AM
USA is supposed to be 'free' so how can you tell someone they can't speak their language? It's simply part of their culture and it's part of who they are. They stated that the child DOES speak english, but if he chooses to speak in english when the words aren't directed at one who wouldn't understand then what's the big deal? It's just as if a student was whispering or writing notes, the only person who knows what he's talking about is the person he's directing it to. Besides, the United States doesn't even have an official language.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 20, 2008 at 08:37 AM
Well being Native American I could tell any one of you that is not "real" native american to go back to your country. I believe that people get angry and upset because of what they don't know. Yes we are having issues with illegals but it doesn't give a right to tell naturally born mexican americans that they can't speak their own language.

Posted by: Ant Location: here on May 20, 2008 at 08:25 AM
I was raised in the St. Annes church and attended Sunday school there. My parents still go there... and they say there are more MEXICANS/SPANISH people there than ever before. The Spanish go there becuase they get respected... now they are pulling this BS... get the hell out if you dont like it. I am SOOOO tired of the American WHITE people having to change their own ways for some other ethnic peeps coming in to our country... be it be Spanish/Chinese/Blacks... go the hell home to your own country!!! Of coarse they wont because they wont get supported financially like they get treated here in the USA... the country use to be ALL WHITE and spoke ENGLISH... didnt have the problems back then! :)

Posted by: b Location: derby on May 20, 2008 at 08:22 AM
Go back to your country and if your son is using spanish to bully other kids then shame on you for backing up your son--we don't need people such as you or your son in america--take your spanish and go home--you not making enough american money so you're trying to scam more out of the school through the lawsuit--shame on the lawyers--traitors to our country--go home you're not wanted here.

Posted by: j Location: Valley Center on May 20, 2008 at 08:19 AM
it's america if you don't want your kids to speak english then go back home where you belong and take those ridiculous traitor lawyers with you. if you want them to speak english then go to a public school--obviously you earn enough of american money to send your kids to private school--so shut up or ship out. The school needs to turn around and sue you parents for such a frivolous lawsuit and for not wanting to follow the rules--GO HOME and speak your language there--we americans are getting tired of you trying to turn our country into you.

Posted by: Ridiculous Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 08:12 AM
I have a family member who married someone from a Spanish speaking country and they have children. The children speak English in school and then learn Spanish from the other parent at home. I certainly do not have a problem with children knowing several different languages but speak it at home. This is a private school...if you DON'T like then go to public school. Unfortuantely they don't have the same policy. We need a common language in our country and it happens to be English. My ancestors had to learn the language and they would have NEVER considered suing the school because they couldn't speak their native language there. I am sure these are good kids who just wanted to speak Spanish but what if they weren't and planning to do harm to the other children? Again, we NEED a common language.

Posted by: Jack Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 08:07 AM
Totally agree, it is like all the people who gripe about having a public Christmas tree that is a tradition for Christian Americans, but now we can't have one because a few non Christian people found it offensive. We just keep giving in to these people. Next thing you know these people will want the mexican flag flying over ours. Ridiculous! GO HOME

Posted by: cliff Location: wichita on May 20, 2008 at 07:59 AM
so now the liberals have spoken their hate message. I dont really think every time I hear a different language being spoken, that they are making fun of me. being overly paranoid only causea more hate. go back to wherever your ancestors came from and take your hate with you.

Posted by: James Location: w on May 20, 2008 at 07:05 AM
Try going to messico and demanding that they provide bilingual support everywhere; hahahaha; I speak some spanish and the amount of profane things said by the staff in some mexican restaurants is astounding

Posted by: Dennis Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 06:48 AM
I am in agreement with the school and their reason for implementing this policy. What they say is a truth and those who have a second language do use it in that fashion to talk about others who can't understand them. Don't waste our courts time with another useless lawsuit. Then again what would you expect from someone who probably didn't follow the rules in coming to this country in the first place, why would they teach their children to follow any?

Posted by: oldgoat Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 03:37 AM
I would think these people need to understand that there is a difference between rights and following rules. He violated the rules and now the parents are now saying that he had the right to speak Spanish even though he knew English. Sorry but especially in a private school you are there are their OK. At any time you can be invited to leave if you don't like the rules. They would be doing him a big favor use this as a example that you are to follow rules instead of the rules being changed to suit you.

Posted by: Common Sense Location: Wichita on May 20, 2008 at 01:02 AM
It's a private school. Follow the rules or go to public school. Or better yet, go back to Mexico.

Posted by: FF FIRECRACKER on May 19, 2008 at 11:51 PM
Totally support the school 1000% percent these kids are in the USA so SPEAK ENGLISH IF THEY WANT TO SPEAK SPANISH GO BACK TO WHERE THEY CAME FROM

Posted by: Anonymous Location: wichita on May 19, 2008 at 11:33 PM
I agree...if you want to speak Spanish do it in your home or go to a spanish speaking country...now if an american that spoke english moved to a spanish speaking country they would expect them to learn spanish, now wouldn't they?

Posted by: Granny J Location: Kanss on May 19, 2008 at 10:39 PM
I agree totally with the school. These children live in the United States of America where we speak English. They must do the same.

Posted by: joni Location: kansas on May 19, 2008 at 10:19 PM
please tell these people they can go back where they come from. this is a AMERICA and we speak ENGLISH. you live in our country you work in our country you should have to speak our language.

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