Deal With It - or Not?

Sometimes a direct approach is necessary, but sometimes ignoring a situation works best.  Knowing when to do each is the hallmark of a good administrator. 

Here is an example of effectively ignoring a situation:

In a middle school setting, a young man dressed inappropriately for school.  (He came to school in his mother's dress.)  Various employees commented to the principal about this inappropriate attire and how disruptive it might be.  Employees were asked to simply ignore the situation as it appeared to be for the purpose of getting attention.  Everyone on staff did as asked, but some of his friends may have asked him why he was dressed that way.  By the end of the day....

Nothing happened.  He came to school the next day in his usual blue jeans and t-shirt.  Not a big deal and no punishment needed.