School system drops appeal, student allowed to wear nose ring

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — A Johnston County high school student will
be able to wear a nose ring to class as long as she remains a
member of a religious group that practices body modification.

Officials with the Johnston County Schools said Monday they’re
dropping their appeal of a federal judge’s order allowing freshman
Ariana Iacono to attend class with the nose piercing.

The school dress code forbids facial piercings. But Iacono
belongs to the Church of Body Modification. The group includes
piercings and tattoos as elements of its religious practice.

School officials say Iacono will be allowed to wear the nose
ring as long as she remains in the church.

The state chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union says the
resolution is a victory for religious freedom.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)