Interestingly enough, it is the students who are concerned with this issue, and not the teachers and administrators. Most students who use profanity use them around their friends and not the teachers. "I think it's okay in regular conversation, but it is disrespectful to teachers," said sophomore Katie Weiland. For this reason, the school's staff isn't exposed to the profanity used by students. "I think that it's not really a problem," said Assistant Principal, Ron Franklin.

When profanity is used in the classroom, teachers try to address the problem if they Ūnd the situation inappropriate. "If they swear in my class they go straight to the office," said Dora Swart, a math teacher. The penalty for profanity, according to the W. F. West Student Handbook , is for "The use of profanity or inappropriate words...the student will earn a minimum of a one-hour detention."

Although students have recognized that not all teachers discipline for foul language. "I think that teachers tend to ignore it. And if they say something about it then they're kind of egging them on, and they'll do it more," said Hoglund.

Senior Devon Sorenson agrees, "Some teachers don't care."

Profanity is not only inappropriate but it offends people and some of it is considered sexual harassment.

The Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has grouped sexual harassment into three main types. One of them includes verbal conduct.

The Commission wrote, "Verbal conduct of a sexual nature includes such acts as comments about...sexual jokes, and sexual innuendoes; comments about the perpetrator's sex life; and sexual remarks (not necessarily about the victim)." The Student Handbook also states that, "Students should be aware of behavior, remarks, and jokes, etc., that may embarrass or cause others to be uncomfortable. They should monitor their behavior and language. Sexual harassment will not be tolerated in this setting." If the teacher feels that the profanity is sexual harassment, then the student may be disciplined, suspended, or expelled.

Some students don't think that teachers should get upset about foul language. "I don't think teachers should have a fit about it if they hear it in the classroom. They shouldn't write them up all the time for it," said Kristie Fenn, a sophomore.

Others take a more radical view. "I think it doesn't matter what people say. If they want to say it then they can. It's your life, say what you want," said sophomore Eric Boyd. Sophomore Jenica Spogen agrees to a certain extent. "I think that foul language is your choice. It's an alternate way to express your anger rather than punching someone," said Spogen.

So how should students who disapprove of profanity and swearing crack down on foul language? "I think the way language will be improved is if students think there should be better language," said Swart. "Unless students think they need to get rid of it, we can't control it totally. We aren't with you in the hallway. We aren't with you in the parking lot."

Stapled to the wall in Swart's room is a sign. Swart pointed it out and said, "We always look back to 'Demonstrating Your Personal Responsibility." As she had said, suggestion #2 on the poster reads, "Use appropriate language and behavior, contributing positively to class at all times."