Michigan School Confiscates Third-Grader’s Cupcakes Because Of Toy Soldiers

Schools these days have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to a lot of things. But, I didn't realize that one of those things was little green Army men. And apparently neither did this little boy's parents. Third-grader Hunter Fountain was just trying to bring in some treats to celebrate his birthday. Little did he know that the things his mom had used to decorate the cupcakes weren't allowed.

The school's principal thought that the little green men were "insensitive" in light of the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School. But, the boys parents didn't see anything wrong. And apparently neither did the school secretary. The parents told Yahoo!that mom brought the treats into the front office that morning, and the secretary remarked favorably about them. But, mom received a phone call 15 minutes later saying that the school would not serve the cupcakes with the Army men on them because they were holding guns. Mom said what I think any mom would say, "take the Army men off, then." (I probably would have used more colorful language.)

In a statement to local media, Schall Elementary School principal Susan Wright said of the incident,

These are toys that were commonplace in the past. However, some parents prohibit all guns as toys. In light of that difference, the school offered to replace the soldiers with another item and the soldiers were returned home with the student. Living in a democratic society entails respect for opposing opinions. In the climate of recent events in schools we walk a delicate balance in teaching non-violence in our buildings and trying to ensure a safe, peaceful atmosphere.

I understand and appreciate the fact that schools are trying to protect kids from violence, but I'm pretty sure that a little green Army man has never actually killed anyone.