In the Virginia Beach City Public Schools district, student voices are becoming more visible as conversations about school protests continue to grow. While peaceful protests are often associated with national movements or college campuses, many students believe that high school campuses can also be powerful spaces for civic engagement and expression. See the School Board Policy: Here.
Student protests give young people the opportunity to participate in democracy in a direct way. Supporters argue that these experiences are not only important for addressing issues in schools but also for teaching students how civic participation works in the real world.
“I value school protests… students deserve to voice their opinions,” said senior Kailyn Cress.
Historically, student protests have played an important role in shaping social change in the United States. During the Civil Rights Movement in 1960, thousands of students participated in school walkouts and other protests to show their dissent towards segregation and discrimination. Later, in the late 1960s and early 1970s, students across the country organized demonstrations against the Vietnam War. These movements showed that young people could influence national conversations and push leaders to address important issues.
Senior Isabella Gray believes protests can provide an important outlet for students who may not feel heard elsewhere.
“Protests are valuable. Some don’t get to voice their opinions at home, so allowing them this space is very much required [now-a-days],” said Gray.
While school protests sometimes raise questions about disruptions or school policies, many educators and students agree that respectful demonstrations can be an important part of learning.
When students organize peacefully, they practice skills like leadership and communication. These are the same skills that will shape them into active citizens in the future.
As conversations about student expression continue in Virginia Beach Schools, one thing remains clear: when students speak up, they are participating in a long tradition of youth activism that has helped shape history.
