NORTH HAVEN, CT (WFSB) -
The class president at North Haven High School was not able to give her speech at graduation on Thursday.
The principal said it's because she missed the deadline to hand it in, but she said it's because she's tied to the national Occupy movement.
"I think it's a combination of Occupy New Haven and me not being in school," said Molly Gambordella. "They wanted me to graduate quietly because of me missing so much school, but still graduate."
Gambordella said she likes sharing her opinions.
The senior class president wanted to give her classmates a memorable speech.
The superintendent said she wasn't allowed to give the speech because she missed the deadline to hand it in.
Gambordella said the school is upset because she took part in Occupy New Haven and missed 2 1/2 months of school while she lived at the camp.
Gambordella did complete her graduation requirements.
During the graduation dry run, Gambordella sat quietly when it came time for the speech.
"It was a little awkward, but I just didn't stand up and give it. I just stayed sitting and that was fine," Gambordella said.
Students at North Haven High School were split on the decision.
"I think she should be allowed to give (the speech)," said one student. "She's been a really good president."
Another student didn't feel the same way.
"When you miss a deadline, you miss a deadline. I don't think it would be fair."
Gambordella said after graduation, she will still give it, but to a bigger audience.
"I'm planning on giving my speech at the national gathering (of Occupy movement protesters) in Philly, and putting it on blogs and the Occupy Wall Street website," Gambordella said.
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