April 18, 2018

 

Dear Rock Island High School Family and Team,

 

There have been many student led movements throughout the nation, since the school shooting in Florida on February 14; partly to grieve, and partly to demand changes to prevent future school shootings. A week after the shooting, on February 21 a protest occurred at Rock Island High School, it was quickly organized by students on social media with approximately 30 students participating. After the protest, the administration determined there would be no discipline consequences for the students. While that decision goes against the Rock Island-Milan School District #41 Code of Conduct, it was determined that was the best solution.

 

School district administration debriefed after the student walk out on February 21st and also sought information from the State Board of Education and attorneys about handling student protests and were advised to prioritize two key points for future protests: school safety/disruption and coordination/communication with students.

 

Our students’ safety is the most important priority. Rock Island High School and the School District support students’ rights to freedom of expression and to peacefully assemble. High School Administration has met multiple times with students to hear their ideas for improving campus safety, security and culture; we expect to continue the dialogue as often as needed.

 

National Student Walk-Out Day, another national student protest, has emerged and is occurring this Friday, April 20, at 10:00 a.m. There is a student group at the high school with plans to participate. The student group has met with the high school administration to share plans for a peaceful demonstration. The administration has communicated to the students that if they participate in the walk out, they are free to do so, but will be marked unexcused for that time period. After the demonstration disbands at 11:00 a.m., if there are any students who do not return to class, they will be issued a detention. While we do believe in a student’s right to freedom of expression, we do have to ensure that the school functions and education are minimally disrupted and that student safety isn’t compromised.

 

There may be increased police presence around the high school on Friday, with the priority on student and staff protection and safety. We hope that we have created a balance that will ensure our students feel the responsibility of being citizens while not missing out on their opportunity for a quality education. If you have any questions please call the main office at 309-793-5950.  

 

Sincerely,

Dr. Mike Oberhaus, Superintendent 

Rock Island-Milan School District #41