Shaler Area families,
As you may be aware, schools and students across the United States are preparing for a National School Walkout event on March 14, a 17-minute “walkout” starting at 10 a.m., organized by student groups, to remember the victims of the recent shooting in Parkland, Florida.
At Shaler Area, school administration has worked in cooperation with student leadership to coordinate a School Violence Awareness Day on March 14 which will provide students with safe and meaningful activities in which they can choose to participate.
Our high school student government has created a positive plan that will focus on school violence awareness and taking a proactive approach to ending school violence.
- The high school will have an extended mid-day homeroom with multiple activities occurring that address student concerns. The auditorium will be available for students to convene.
- Students may submit safety improvement ideas to administration via a voluntary electronic submission form during the extended homeroom.
- Connections to mental health awareness and emotional well-being will be made and resources will be shared.
- Students are encouraging civic responsibility by registering to vote, conducting a blood drive, and holding an open forum discussion and breakout talks in the auditorium led by the high school Student Political Action Committee (SPACE) and Student Government.
Participation in any of the above activities is entirely voluntary. Student who choose not to participate may remain in their homerooms during that time.
Students who engage in protests that are disruptive in nature, and outside of the parameters listed above, may be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
While Shaler Area Middle School students have not expressed an interest in participating in the March 14 walkouts, the administration team has identified safe locations and meaningful activities within the school for students who would like to honor those who have lost their lives to the recent school violence.
We feel these demonstrations are not developmentally or emotionally appropriate for students at the elementary and primary levels, therefore the school day will proceed as normal at these buildings.
We hope to frame the day by generating a more positive culture as a proactive measure to end school violence and provide students with a safe and responsible way for their voices to be heard.
As you are aware, this is a very challenging time for school districts, and we appreciate your support as we work together to maintain a positive and safe learning environment for all.
Sincerely,
Mr. Sean C. Aiken
Superintendent of Schools
Shaler Area School District