I have started this post and stopped it so many times. In my head, on paper, and now here. On this blog my goal is to keep my posts light and upbeat while sharing valuable and helpful content. However, the violence that has been plaguing our schools cannot go unnoticed. As a school counselor, I have watched at first in horror, then in admiration of the students around our nation who are going through such tremendous trauma. They have shown bravery, resilience, and a fierceness that is truly admirable.

As a nation, we have major issues to address regarding access to weapons, access to mental health, access to high quality education, etc. Our schools are forced to use valuable resources to provide additional security measures such as on-site law enforcement, locked doors, metal detectors, and lock-down drills just to name a few. Not to mention the push to arm overworked, over-stressed and underpaid teachers and staff. But these measures are not enough.

After the recent tragedy in Florida, students have had enough. Parents have had enough. Teachers are afraid that they cannot protect you. Thankfully, there are brave souls who are standing up and speaking out. Walkouts and Die-Ins are occurring all over the country. And here is where I want to focus my attention today.

The most significant walk-out took place in East LA in 1968. Hispanic and Latino students felt they were being pigeonholed into lower level classes and guided toward manual labor careers despite their abilities and ambitions for post-secondary education. Students designated a specific time, rose from their desks and left their classrooms. This was no small feat seeing that they had to accomplish this by word of mouth. No social media, email, or mass texts to get the word out. This movement spread over several southwest states with nearly 10,000 students participating.

You can make a significant statement with an organized walkout. But it needs to be organized. Walking out because you don’t feel like going to class or sleeping in and using the walkout as an excuse diminishes the cause (yes, this is happening). It needs to mean something to you, as it does to so many.

Did you know you have rights? Walkouts fall under the first amendment. The ACLU has published a guide for students. Before you use this in an argument with teachers or administrators, however, do your research. Most districts and schools will work with you and allow you to exercise your right to assemble. But you must keep it within reason. Causing a disruption, using violence, or being confrontational without facts to back up what you’re saying will not serve you well. You will have teachers that support you wholly, others will not. Being respectful doesn’t mean you have to remain silent. But without it you will not succeed. Know what you’re protesting so that you can educate others. Be passionate in your quest.

I truly believe that you, my teens, are the solution. You are the voice. Be heard. Make us proud.