Louisiana High School Principal Reinstates Student Privileges Following Controversy Over Dance Video

Recent backlash ensued after Walker High School's Principal, Jason St. Pierre, penalized a student due to a video of her dancing at a private post-homecoming party. The student, Kaylee Timonet, faced consequences that included the removal of her scholarship endorsement and her position in the Student Government Association (SGA).

In a statement released on Sunday, October 8, St. Pierre announced that he has formally apologized to the Timonet family. He confirmed the reinstatement of Kaylee's scholarship endorsement and her position in the SGA, emphasizing Walker High's commitment to prioritizing students. "At Walker High, we strive to place our students first in every decision so they may be prepared for whatever career path they may aspire to take," St. Pierre stated.

The controversy arose when a video, showing Kaylee dancing with friends at a private venue after the homecoming event, was uploaded online by the DJ of the event. Rachel Timonet, Kaylee's mother, expressed her disapproval of the school's initial reaction, stating, "If it was something that she did on school grounds and they addressed it, that’s fine. But addressing something based on a personal belief, especially when I, as her mother, was present and saw nothing inappropriate, is unfair."

In his statement, St. Pierre acknowledged the need for more inclusive discussions regarding the standards to which student leaders, such as those in the SGA, are held. He emphasized the importance of creating a clear pathway where all stakeholders, including students, can collaboratively set clear expectations.

The principal also touched upon a conversation he had with Kaylee about religious beliefs, realizing it was not his place to determine or judge an individual's religious beliefs.

As he concluded his statement, St. Pierre called for the community's continued support, "As we move forward, I ask for your continued support of Walker High School, our amazing teachers, and outstanding students."

See St. Pierre's statement in its entirety below and see the full story here via WAFB.

A message from Jason St. Pierre, Principal of Walker High Livingston Parish Public Schools

Good afternoon WHS Family,

I believe it is necessary to respond to the public attention that has resulted from my actions regarding Kaylee Timonet’s participation in a dance party that was sponsored at an off-site location following WHS Homecoming.

I have had time to consider my actions, have conversations with the Timonets, and meet with district staff.

First, let me say that I have apologized to the Timonets and I am hopeful that my scheduled meeting with Kaylee’s mom will rectify this situation and allow Kaylee to enjoy the remainder of her senior year at Walker High School.

I will be reinstating Kaylee’s position on the Student Government Association. The SGA was created to give students a voice in their school and their community, to promote leadership qualities, and to represent their school with pride, enthusiasm, and respect. Our student government members are held to a high standard of student behavior. While I stand by that premise, I do believe that standard deserves the input of not just myself and top administrators, but also those student leaders. I hope to create a path moving forward where we can work together to create clear expectations for all.

I will be reinstating my scholarship endorsement for Kaylee. At Walker High, we strive to place our students first in every decision so they may be prepared for whatever career path they may aspire to take, and I believe my action will assist in doing that.

Finally, during my conversation with Kaylee regarding the dance party, the subject of religious beliefs was broached by Kaylee and myself. While that conversation was meant with the best intentions, I do understand it is not my responsibility to determine what students’ or others’ religious beliefs may be – that should be the responsibility of the individual

As principal of Walker High School, I am faced daily with many difficult decisions for the interest of our students and employees that are never taken lightly. Please know that I always strive to place our students first in every decision. It is for that reason that I have taken this corrective action.

As we move forward, I ask for your continued support of Walker High School, our amazing teachers, and outstanding students.

Thank you,

Jason St. Pierre, Principal

Walker High School