LEESBURG, FL.a – A group of Leesburg High School students could face suspension under the school’s code of conduct policy after they left campus Wednesday to engage in a protest against federal immigration practices.
Lake County Schools on Thursday released a public statement about the walkout.
“Lake County Schools recognizes that students retain First Amendment rights, including the right to express their views on matters of public concern. We believe that civic engagement can be an important part of learning, and we encourage students to participate in respectful dialogue and other age-appropriate, lawful forms of expression,” the statement said.
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“At the same time, our top priorities during the school day are student safety, appropriate supervision, and protecting instructional time. Leaving campus without authorization and refusing directives to return to class creates serious safety and supervision concerns and causes disruption of school operations,” the statement reads.
Lake County Schools said students are expected to comply with district policies and applicable state rules while on campus and during the school day.
“Failure to do so can lead to disciplinary action,” LCS said.
However, because student discipline records are confidential, the district cannot discuss individual students or specific consequences for participation in the walkout.
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The LCS code of student conduct states that causing a disruption on campus is a Level IV infraction, and students may be suspended for up to 10 days.
“We will continue to respond consistently and fairly under our Code of Student Conduct, and we encourage families and students to work with school administrators to address concerns through established channels,” the statement concluded.