Ferry Farm Elementary School Principal Robert Freeman had green in mind when he asked teachers to stop using so much paper.
Just not the green they assumed.
On Monday, second-grade teachers sent a note to parents telling them that homework packets would stop for the rest of the year because of a paper shortage, which they attributed to "the effects of the budget crunch."
But it turns out there isn't a paper shortage at the elementary in southeastern Stafford County. Freeman wanted to encourage conservatism, not to panic parents.
"There is no paper issue," said Valerie Cottongim, spokeswoman for the Stafford County school system.
Freeman didn't see the note before it went home with the second-graders, she said.
Freeman was instead encouraging teachers to use technology, such as smartboards, instead of printing out worksheets, Cottongim added.
After a fredericksburg.com blog post about the note, some county residents have dropped off paper at Ferry Farm. While Freeman and his staff are grateful for the support, they weren't seeking donations, Cottongim emphasized.
Amy Flowers Umble: 540/735-1973
Email: aumble@freelancestar.com