Gwinnett County Public Schools “Affirms Policies” in favor of student walkouts; promises consequences won’t include “punishment”

On January 29th, Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS)–located outside of Atlanta, Georgia–released a statement titled “GCPS Affirms Policies That Support Student Expression, Learning, and School Safety.”

The statement included a quote from the superintendent, in support of student demonstrations, noting that student leaders have been in ongoing communication with administrators, so that they can express themselves safely.

The quote reads, “‘Our school leaders work closely with students to help them express themselves in appropriate and meaningful ways, while families play an important role in talking with their children about current events and reinforcing expectations for attendance and learning. When we work together, students are better prepared to participate responsibly in our community.’”

The statement continues, sharing that school leaders have worked with student representatives to “identify designated times and locations on campus for student expression that maintain safety and limit disruption to teaching and learning.”

Referencing the GCPS Student Behavior Conduct Code, the district affirms that “students who leave  class or school grounds without authorization during instructional time will receive appropriate consequences focused on learning, accountability, and support—not punishment.”