Drugs, sex, alcohol found in yearbook insert

Drugs, homosexuality, alcohol in yearbook

For the first time in Volusia County history, this year's "Athenian" takes a candid look at life at DeLand High School with a 12-page insert that talks about everything from homosexuality to tanning, showing pictures of students with tattoos and quotes from others talking about using drugs and alcohol.

The principal and the yearbook advisor both signed off on the insert, calling it a student journalism project. A school district spokesperson said hopefully it sparks a conversation between parents and their kids, but some parents believe that's not up for the school to decide.

"That might be reality, but it's not what we want to see and read," said Jennifer Lightfoot, who normally has a house full of teenagers.

Like most parents, she was never told these controversial topics were being printed in the yearbook.

"It's up to the parent what they're willing to discuss," said Lightfoot. "I don't think it should really be public discussion for others to have with my children."

"A heads-up might have been a good thing," said Mike Graves, whose son will graduate Sunday. "That way, it wouldn't have been as shocking to some."

And they're not alone. There's plenty of backlash online, with readers posting to the local paper, saying:

"Shame! shame!"

"I am truly embarrassed for DeLand High School."

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Drugs, sex, alcohol found in yearbook insert