Am I way off base here?

[CornField]

Tonight was my 13-year-old daughter's school concert. It was the first time I had an opportunity to view the show choir. My daughter had tried out for it, but was not selected. Seeing as most of those chosen were 8th graders and she's in 7th, I really didn't think too much about it.

The public school she attends is fairly typical (I think). Many of kids are over-weight. I'd say at a minimum 40% would be considered on the heavy side of things and, yes, my daughter is included in that percentage.

The girls and guys selected for show choir didn't seem to be very representative of the student body. Not any of the girls were over-weight and only one of the guys was.

I feel like approaching either the choir director (who is quite heavy herself) or the school principal (who I know fairly well) about this. I've often heard my daughter and her friends complain that "only the pretty girls" are selected for show choir. Until tonight, I figured they were just being snarky. Now, I'm not sure that is the case.

So, tell me honestly: Am I just being a total over-bearing parent for even considering discussing this with school staff?

[BikeWriter]

1. A totally over-bearing parent? No, not at all...

I would suspect your daughter and her friend's grasp on the situation is unfortunately realistic. :(

[CornField]

4. Yeah, I'm thinking the same thing

The middle school and junior high years are torture enough without teachers joining in the crapiness. :(

[Not_Giving_Up]

2. I'd have a chat with the principal

Something doesn't smell right.

[CornField]

5. I'm leaning toward the principal

We're good enough friends that I know our discussions wouldn't result in any repercusions against my daughter. Also, I've always found him to be fair and objective.

[RagingInMiami]

3. Sadly, that's a trend that is not limited to school

It also happens in the workplace where your salary and promotions are dependent on your looks or height.

[CornField]

7. I've heard that. Fortunately, I've never experienced it.

It's sad that promotions and selections are not always made on merit and ability.

[RagingInMiami]

8. They've done studies on it

Taller, good-looking people make more money doing the same type of work than average-looking people.

It has not been determined whether this happens because the good-looking people are more confident, or if the people who hire them are unconsciously taking in by their looks or charm or whatever.

I would imagine it's a combination of the above-mentioned.

[shesemsmom]

6. No you are right

it goes on all over the country. My Daughter complains of the same thing. It wasn't just chior, but cheer leading. you know the kids with*names * get all that stuff. I think you are right to look into it

[CornField]

9. I hope so

The last thing I want to do is make matters worse for my daughter.