DARLINGTON, SC (WBTW) – The state superintendent of education said she will personally apologize to a student who was not able to join her graducation ceremony at Lamar High School because of a dress code.

Superintendent Molly Spearman called on the leadership of Darlington County School District to repeal the dress code practice immediately.

“These antiquated and discriminatory policies that prevented one of our graduates from being recognized for a once in a lifetime achievement have no place in South Carolina’s public education system,” Spearman tweeted on Thursday. “I am calling on the leadership of Darlington County School District to repeal this practice immediately and will offer my personal apology and congratulations to this student for her achievement and decision to serve our country.”

A dress code issue resulted in the student not being able to walk at the graduation ceremony. Dr. Tim Newman, district superintendent, said on Thursday he reached out to the student to apologize and to assure her that her actions have led to positive change districtwide.

In a statement following the incident, the school said “this is extremely regrettable, and this circumstance has led to significant change throughout the Darlington County School District.”

“I appreciate the student for bringing her concern to our attention,” Newman said. “The Darlington County School District recognizes that the dress code rule is not consistent with our commitment to being inclusive for all students. This practice has been eliminated, effective immediately.”

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