Eighth Grade at PS 44 and Parole Extensions
Lee entered the eighth grade at Public School 44, with his parole set to expire ten days later. Mrs. Oswald telephoned the probation officer on September 24, claiming Lee was well adjusted and that her court appearance was unnecessary; the parole was extended to October 29 pending a school progress report. The report was highly unfavorable: although Lee attended regularly, his conduct was unsatisfactory, he refused to salute the flag, did little work, and spent time sailing paper planes around the room. Justice Sicher extended parole to November 19 and directed referral to the Berkshire Industrial Farm or Children’s Village.
November 1953 Court Hearing and Big Brothers Referral
After Mrs. Oswald’s visit to the school, Lee’s behavior improved and he received passing grades in most subjects, though teachers noted he was “quick-tempered,” “constantly losing control,” and “getting into battles with others.” At the November 19 hearing, despite Mrs. Oswald’s request that Lee be discharged, Justice Sicher continued parole until January 28, 1954, and directed the probation officer to contact the Big Brothers counseling service.
Big Brothers Visit and Unauthorized Relocation to New Orleans
The Big Brothers caseworker visited the Oswald home on January 4, where he was cordially received but told by Mrs. Oswald that continued counseling was unnecessary; she pointed out that Lee attended the West Side YMCA every Saturday. The caseworker observed that Lee was plainly “displeased with the idea of being forced to join various ‘Y’ organizations.” Mrs. Oswald announced her intention to return to New Orleans and was advised to obtain Lee’s release from the court’s jurisdiction. Multiple warnings were given to Mrs. Oswald not to remove Lee from the jurisdiction without court consent, prompted by her fear he would be retained in custody. Without further communication to the court, Mrs. Oswald and Lee returned to New Orleans before January 10.
The original text of this work is in the public domain. This page focuses on a guided summary article, reading notes, selected quotes, and visual learning materials for educational purposes.