When talk of potential walkouts circulated, the DGS administration responded preemptively by sending an email to the student body and parents that set an expectation for walkouts at DGS.
In the email, it was stated, “If a student feels compelled to protest about any topic that is important to them, we encourage them to select an event and time that does not interrupt their learning or potentially cause a disruption at school.”
It was emphasized that consequences would remain the same as being unexcused on any other day. School staff were instructed not to promote or participate in the walkout, while no parents or visitors were allowed on campus to participate as well.
The day of the protest, the administration’s message was more visible. On each entrance of the school, taped up was a poster stating that any unexcused absences would result in a four-hour detention that was not there prior.
Principal Arwen Lyp explains the thought process behind the email that was sent out to students and families prior to the actual walkout. The goal was to clarify the school’s responsibilities and expectations.
“The email kind of just says that we understand sometimes students do this and they have the right to do it; however, as a school, our primary responsibility is for students to be here and learn so we can keep them safe, we always prefer when students choose to use their first amendment rights to protest at a time that’s not during school hours,” Lyp said.
Hundreds of students participated in the walkout to highlight concerns about current issues related to ICE and to promote the message of spreading love over hate. Students from DGS and DGN gathered at Downtown Downers Grove, many carrying handmade signs to advocate for justice.
Although repercussions were clear, the participation still remained strong in the walkout. Senior Axel Cabay felt compelled to participate in the walkout regardless of the consequences.
“I think the walkout covered a relevant issue that I care about, which outweighed the consequences for me,” Cabay said.
Junior Samantha Oberle shared similar beliefs about her participation in the walkout emphasizing the unity shown and felt among her peers. Students across all grade levels stood together showcasing the impact on the community.
“It’s worth it to participate… I feel pride towards our community. I didn’t expect that many people to show up, so it was really cool to see how everyone came together,” Oberle said.
The administration explains that student expression in public schools has to stay within legal guidelines, while students are allowed to exercise their First Amendment rights, schools are obligated to have a neutral stance.
“Schools all across the country follow the same First Amendment guidance, and that schools are required to remain neutral whenever there is a political event,” Lyp said.
DGS administration outlined expectations regarding the walkout ahead of time. Maintaining a balance between students’ rights and a structured learning environment. Most students understood the role of the school in the walkout.
“I’m glad they didn’t try to stop people from leaving, and there was staff at the door telling us to be safe, so that was nice to see,” Oberle said.
