The following letter to the editor, submitted to ThoroldNews by Thorold native and former 'Globe and Mail' editor Wilf Slater, looks back at an event from Thorold Secondary School on its 75th anniversary:
Seventy-five years ago, May 1, 1944, students at the high school refrained from returning to their classrooms after the noon break.
They had congregated on the school grounds in a protest against a decision by the long time, and soon to be retired principal, Andrew Haines, not to allow a spring prom.
His rationale was that he had approved many dances throughout the year. A school board member was unable to encourage students, some carrying rally signs, to immediately return to their classes.
However, the grounds were cleared as the final bell approached. It was a glorious afternoon to skip classes. Mr. Haines was replaced by Fred Harvie, who held the post for many years.
The prom did not take place.
Sincerely, Wilf Slater
