Message from Principal Connolly - Potential Walk Out

Potential Walk Out

We have been made aware of a potential “Walkout for Palestine” on Monday, October 7th. This is not an event organized by any school-sanctioned Issaquah High School club or group, but some of our students may be considering participation in this walkout.

We recognize and respect our students' First Amendment rights to peacefully assemble and express themselves, as outlined in ISD Regulation 3223 (Freedom of Assembly). However, it is important to emphasize that we will not tolerate any speech or behavior that includes hate speech or incivility. All messages shared must remain civil and safe, as defined in ISD Regulation 4011 (Civility). Additionally, I would like to remind everyone that Issaquah High School is a closed campus, and only current students are allowed on campus during the school day.

If students do choose to participate in the walkout, we will closely monitor the situation and intervene as necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of all. We will not tolerate:

• Any behavior that compromises the safety of students or protesters, such as threats of harm.
• Speech or actions that are discriminatory, harassing, intimidating, or bullying, as described in ISD Regulation 3207 (Prohibition Against Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying) and ISD Regulation 3210 (Nondiscrimination).
• Any speech not protected by the First Amendment within a school setting, including obscene or profane language, threats of violence, or speech that causes substantial disruption to the educational environment or impedes the rights of others.

If students leave campus as part of the walkout, please understand that we cannot supervise their actions. In those instances, we will notify law enforcement so they can ensure the safety of all students and manage crowd control if necessary. Our usual safety protocols will remain in effect, and only individuals with approved business or activities are permitted on campus. Staff from our Safety and Security Department, as well as administrators, will be present. Please note that any student who misses instructional time to participate in this event will not have their absence excused.

We are dedicated to providing equal educational opportunities for all students, and we are committed to upholding a safe and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. Any speech or behavior that targets students based on these categories will not be tolerated.

If any student feels unsafe or uncomfortable as a result of the walkout, I encourage them to visit the counseling center, where support will be available. If any student feels they have been targeted or discriminated against because of the walkout, please come to the main office to file a report.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment at Issaquah High School.

Thank you