SALT LAKE CITY, Utah -- Leis are a big part of Hawaii graduation ceremonies, but a high school in Utah is banning students from wearing them.

The ban has prompted directors of the Utah state ethnic offices to protest the policy at Woods Cross High School.

Principal Rick Call said the graduation adornment was just getting out of control.

"(It) lessens the dignity of the pomp and the circumstance and the ceremony that surrounds graduation," Call said.

The school did not want leis and other trappings to detract from the special cords worn by outstanding graduates. Woods Cross students are hoping the custom of allowing leis during the ceremony will be reinstted next year.

Bill Afeaki, director of the state Office of Pacific Islander Affairs, protested the decision as black, Hispanic and Asian leaders have rallied around him.

Graduating senior Kaili Tonga said many other high schools in Utah allow it.

"A lot of the family was upset," Tonga said. "It is like a sign of celebration. I don't know why they would just not let you wear leis.

Tonga's mother Leilani grew up in Hawaii. Her family from Laie sent dozens of leis to the graduation.

They sent Davis School District Superintendent a letter, saying, "Terming leis 'other paraphernalia' definitely shows gross insensitivity to a cultural phenomenon that is important to Polynesians."