On the one-month anniversary of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, students across the country plan walkouts on March 14 in tribute to the 17 people that were killed in the shooting.
The walkout is part of a national movement to raise awareness about issues of school safety and the impact of gun violence. The nationwide march, organized by Women’s March Youth Empower, will be at 10 a.m. and last 17 minutes, one minute for every victim of the Parkland shooting.
Montezuma-Cortez School District Re-1 said on Monday that the high school will have a supervised walkout on campus for the 17 minutes.
According to the statement, school resource officers and adult supervision will be present for the entire activity.
“Thank you for the support you have shown to our school community. We are grateful for our family and community partners who care deeply about the safety and success of students,” said the Montezuma-Cortez statement, which was signed by high school Principal Jason Wayman and district Superintendent Lori Haukeness.
In the statement, administrators acknowledged that some students may want to participate, and stated that their primary focus is teaching, learning and keeping kids safe.
The district referenced District Policy IMB, Teaching about Controversial/Sensitive Issues, stating, “Students should not feel pressure to participate; we are simply trying to work with those that are planning to support the event to maintain order and safety. If students chose to express their opinions, we will work with students to maintain a safe school environment. The district does not endorse any particular viewpoint or advocacy group. Students have the right to express their views and opinions.”
Wayman stated that he will reach out to students to see if they want to engage in activities to keep students safe and limit disruptions to the school day.
