BASA Member Update 3.2.18

• Safety comes first – always. A walkout can greatly compromise the safety of those involved. If students are walking out to say they do not feel safe at school, then it can be argued that they are more exposed outside of the building during a pre-arranged time and date for a walkout. There are other considerations, too. If you are allowing students to walk out, then where do they go in the event of an emergency and what are your safety plans surrounding that? Are you allowing parents and others onto your site to protest? What if others come to counter-protest? Have you worked with law enforcement on your plans? There are so many considerations so really think through the pros and cons along with the what-if scenarios.

• Be aware that this is a political issue, but it should not be for schools. This is about safety, safety, safety so keep the conversation focused.

• Once you determine your district’s response and actions surrounding these events, DO communicate with your local law enforcement, teachers and staff, parents and students. They want and deserve guidance through a clear, coordinated district response. Send a letter to parents letting them know the district’s plans and a separate letter to staff. Staff need to know more about what their rights are as they have different protections and responsibilities than students.

Authored by: Carole Dorn-Bell, Jennifer Economus and Amanda Morris with Allerton Hill Consulting (allerton-hill.com, 1-800-549-2285, @outreach_expert). Allerton Hill is proud to be a communications partner with BASA.

Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker