Fresno Unified urging students to stay in class among calls for walkout for anti-gun violence

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Students are calling for anti-gun violence demonstrations in Washington and other cities March 24th. Fresno Unified is urging students to stay on campus.

The district issued a statement Tuesday saying schools will work with student groups to find alternatives to a walkout but still have a safe place on campus to express themselves.

The full statement is below:

Statement from Superintendent Bob Nelson

Fresno Unified Provides Students with Alternatives to Student Walkouts

In response to last week's tragedy in Florida, a number of organizations, both locally and nationally, are coordinating school walkouts. Fresno Unified supports the right to protest peacefully, but is also concerned about the safety of students, should they leave campus. School leaders and campus staff will be working with student groups to identify alternatives to a walkout that ensure Fresno Unified students have a safe place on campus to express themselves.

Alternatives may include:

- Utilizing campus free speech areas during lunch or after school

- Coordinating rallies

- Working with Student Advisory Board members to develop new kindness efforts

- Developing writing projects to share concerns with local, state and national elected officials

- Providing time in selected classes for students to discuss the issue

If a walkout were to occur, the district's safety protocols can only encompass students on campus. Fresno Unified respects the rights of those who choose to protest peacefully but the safety of students and staff will remain the district's top priority.