An elementary-school event in which kids were encouraged to dress as members of the opposite gender drew the widespread criticism of a Christian radio group.

Students at a Reedsburg Elementary School were encouraged to dress either as senior citizens or as members of the opposite sex as part of an annual school tradition called Wacky Week.

The Voice of Christian Youth America, a Milwaukee-based radio network, responded by interrupting its morning programming for a special broadcast that aired on nine radio stations throughout Wisconsin.

The broadcast criticized the dress-up day and accused the district of promoting alternative lifestyles.

"We believe it's the wrong message to send to elementary students," said Jim Schneider, the network's program director. "Our station is one that promotes traditional family values. It concerns us when a school district strikes at the heart and core of the Biblical values. To promote this to elementary-school students is a great error."

After the program aired, both the school and Reedsburg School District office were flooded with calls complaining about the event.

The response surprised Principal Tammy Hayes, who said no one had raised any objections beforehand. She said a flier detailing Wacky Week had been sent home with children the prior week, and an announcement was also included in teacher newsletters.

The theme for Friday's dress-up day came from students, Hayes said.

"It's different every year. They basically present the ideas, and they vote on what they would like from Monday through Friday," Hayes said. "They did not mean anything by this day. They were trying to have fun and come up with a fun dress-up day."

"I can assure you we will not be having this day (again)," Hayes said.

Source: The Associated Press