March 13, 2018

A Message From CHS Principal, Mr. John Carroll

Dear Student,

I write to you in hopes of clarifying the information circulating about student walkouts. You may be aware
that students have been communicating about a walkout on March 14th. The walkout organized by
#ENOUGH to end gun violence encourages students and staff to walk out of school at 10:00 a.m. for 17
minutes. I think it is important that you know all the facts about walkouts and demonstrations in school so you
can make an informed decision.

 Centerville City Schools does not endorse or approve any form of demonstration, including
walkouts. Superintendent, Dr. Henderson, met with me and the class officers to discuss alternatives to
a walkout protest. This could have taken the form of a school-wide assembly focused on
memorializing the victims of Stoneman Douglas HS and supporting their families, while also allowing
students a venue to voice their concerns about school safety. After the meeting, additional feedback
was gathered indicating that students would likely participate in the walkout. Plans for an assembly
were abandoned.

 The first amendment of the constitution protects your rights to freedom of speech and the freedom to
peaceably assemble. However, these rights are limited while you are at school. Demonstrations are
restricted in that they must not create a significant disruption to the education process.

 Because CCS does not endorse any demonstration, it is important to note that all school rules are in
effect. Students who participate in a walkout are subject to the rules and regulations outlined in the
student handbook. In this case, students who participate will be marked "absent unexcused". Since
there have been many misleading rumors about this process, we will manage any absence as a
warning. Per the handbook, this would mean you would not receive credit for work missed. This is
consistent with the handbook language on unexcused absences. I hope you will consider the fact that
protests are an act of civil disobedience, therefore people must be willing to accept consequences
when they choose to participate.

 Our staff works hard every day to maintain a safe and secure school environment. The walkout
organizers have asked staff to participate, it is important to note that staff members have work
 responsibilities. We would have to take time off work to participate in a demonstration.

School administrators and teachers across the country are faced with a significant challenge when
demonstrations occur. We want you to have a voice, express yourself, and positively shape the world we all
live in. However you choose to use your voice, our responsibility remains to insure that you are safe and that
your rights are protected.

In closing, it is important to note that some students will choose not to participate in this walkout for a variety
of reasons. They may not believe in political beliefs of the walkout, they may wish to express their beliefs in a
different way, or it may be a private family decision to not participate. Remember that while we all have the
right to free speech, that right does not give anyone the right to bully, harass, or intimidate individuals for their
beliefs. However, when you exercise your rights, I hope you always do so with maturity, positive character,
and consideration for others.

Respectfully,

John Carroll
Coordinating Principal