To the editor:

In society, there are mass amounts of pressure put on children and teens to obtain the "perfect" image.

For some, the topic of weight makes an uncomfortable subject to those who cannot fit the extra-smalls, size 00 jeans and feel embarrassed by the thought of a bathing suit.

In schools across the nation, parents are receiving letters that state how "imperfect" their child is including a student's BMI and if they are at risk of being overweight, obese, or even underweight, also called "fat letters." Imagine the look on a child's face when they find out they are not good enough.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and having a balanced nutrition are key factors in having a longer, healthier life. On the other hand, in many situations, the "fat letter" is unnecessary. Some schools require students who are categorized as overweight to attend meetings to "help" them become more able-bodied. This causes children to feel self-conscious and to get bullied by their peers. Children can be judgmental of others who do not portray the ideal image of being thin, because society tells them they do not fit in.

The involvement of schools to promote healthy weights only causes students to feel targeted. Why do children need schools to tell them their thighs are too wide, their stomachs are not flat enough and that their pounds are too high?

The "fat letter" being issued is an insensitive method to promoting obesity awareness. Therefore, the dreaded letters received by many families that cause bullying, insecurities and targeting should disappear.

Society teaches children appearance is the only important aspect in life.

The only letters schools should be sending home are appreciation letters to students who excel in academics; because that is what education is about.

Tori Delhagen

Emmaus High School student