A better method is to let the matter rest so far as the class as a whole
is concerned. In a casual way, say to the class president:
“The bonfire built by the senior class involved some little expense for
material. I have an itemized list of the articles destroyed and what
seems to be a just estimate of value. I’ll turn it over to you for
adjustment.
“I want to ask you to present this question to the class at your regular
meeting next Friday: ‘Shall we secure permission hereafter when we want
to have a bonfire?’ The answer is ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ I want the answer, if
you please, at the close of your meeting. I say this because the board
of education insists that I bring word to them of your action.”