March 13, 2018
Dear Catskill CSD Community:
In wake of the tragic events that occurred in Parkland, Florida on February 14, 2018, a group of high school students have expressed a desire to participate in the National Student Walkout that is scheduled for tomorrow, March 14, 2018.
Last month, my team and I met with the organizer of the event to create a forum for students to exercise their First Amendment rights in a safe and secure environment. At Catskill CSD, we encourage student voice and value each student’s opinion with regards to civic life in our country and community.
All students who expressed interest in participating in the “walkout” will be allowed to without any disciplinary action. Students who choose not to participate in the event will remain in class. We have asked the Catskill PD to have a presence at this event to help ensure student safety.
The “walkout” will be held at 10:00am, in an indoor location. No students will be allowed outside or to leave campus during the event. Students who exit our buildings or leave campus without parental permission or supervision will be held accountable per our Student Code of Conduct. At the conclusion of the event, students will return to class.
In closing, we encourage parents to have dialogue with their child / children regarding how to protest peacefully in advance of the planned event. If you have any further questions or concerns, then please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Marielena Hauser, CHS Principal at (518) 943-2300.
Regards,
Dr. Ronel Cook
Superintendent of Schools