The Struggle for Access in Seattle's Night Schools

At the school board meeting last night, a delicate matter regarding the admission of Japanese pupils to the night school was discussed. Mr. Prosch reported that Miss Purdy, a teacher of the night school, had found her five Japanese pupils 'untidy and unclean in their dress and habits,' and noted they had 'unpronounceable names' and had to be distinguished by numbers. The principal, Mr. Peet, had unceremoniously dismissed them without consulting the Superintendent.

Mr. Prosch suggested that some 'gentler method' might be tried for eliminating that element, arguing the board had the right to exclude foreigners, especially adults, as the schools were intended for local children. He asserted the Japanese pupils were increasing in number and 'might crowd out the whites,' adding that they were 'dishwashers, and smelt of their trade.'

Conversely, Mr. Spencer maintained that while the board could enforce rules of personal cleanliness, they could not legally exclude Japanese students. He noted that Japanese classes in day schools elsewhere on the coast were popular and successful. The board ultimately declined to issue an expulsion, leaving the matter to the superintendent to establish rules on cleanliness.