Templeton schools to set aside time to allow for student walk-out
Templeton Superintendent Joe Koski. Image from WN.com
–The Templeton school district will be setting aside time on March 14 at 10 a.m. for students to commemorate the loss of 17 lives in the most recent school shooting, and to collectively advocate for gun control.
Superintendent Joe Koski released the following statement:
Greetings TMS Students and Families,
I recently received a letter from a colleague in another district that expressed my heart so well that I wanted to share a large part of it with you.
The return to school of the students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida provides educators with a “teachable moment,” an opportunity to assist students and our school community in understanding their own thoughts and feelings about the events and the testimonies of students in that community. It is also an opportunity to explore and experience the role of “voice” in our democratic society. It is our duty as educators to support students as they grapple with violence, death and mental illness. It is also our responsibility to talk and reassure our kids about safety in our schools. This may well be an opportunity for us to provide guidance on how students can be civically engaged and politically aware through an educational lens.
Several nationwide online movements have emerged. These movements, communicated through the media, urge students and staff to stage walkouts during the school day on several upcoming dates (March 14, March 24, & April 20) to advocate for political action on the issue of gun control. Some of our students and staff have expressed interest in participating in the walkouts. ~ Dr. Raynee Daley, Superintendent for the Lucia Mar School District
In response, Templeton schools will set aside time on March 14, 2018 at 10 a.m. for students to commemorate the tragic loss of 17 lives in the most recent school shooting. Our school principals have worked with students, including student leaders to ensure this time is constructive and meaningful to students. This opportunity for “student voice” will be on campus with parameters that keep everyone safe. It is anticipated that classes will return to normal operations by 10:30.
At this time, TUSD doesn’t have plans to set aside instructional time to support any walk-outs or political activities on other days.
Please contact Ms. Benson at (805) 434-5813 if you would like specific details about planned activities.
Sincerely,
Joe Koski, Ed.D, Superintendent
