Education
Escalating “student-led” protests related to federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity are expected to continue across the Highline area, affecting both public and private schools.
In recent weeks, parents and local residents have expressed concern about student safety during school-day walkouts. Nearby Western Washington districts, including Issaquah and Enumclaw, have reported violent outbursts at student protests, along with two student arrests in Enumclaw. Local small businesses in the Highline District have also reported large groups of students entering stores during walkout periods.
Should Student Rights Supersede Parental Rights?
Within Highline Public Schools, district leaders have stated they are working to respect students’ rights to expression while maintaining supervision. They claim parental approval is not required since the walk-outs are "student-led." This stance is supported by the Highline teachers union (HEA) and some members of the community.
However, a growing number of parents, including Highline father Vance Glawe, say the district needs to give advance notification and require signed permission slips for off-campus activities so that they can be informed and involved. Glawe has stated he plans to pursue legal action related to a middle school protest.
Kennedy Catholic students, through social media and a student affinity group, have indicated plans for a potential student-led anti-ICE walkout in the near future.
Based on this information and broader regional events, Kennedy families have begun contacting school administrators seeking clarification about what communication they can expect if a walkout occurs.
Meanwhile, Summit Atlas is taking a different approach.
The White Center charter school contacted families in advance, stating, "If a student decides to leave campus for reasons unrelated to school programing, families will be contacted. While we cannot physically stop a student from leaving, please be aware that students may not return to campus once they have departed, and the school cannot assume responsibility for off-campus activities."
Summit Atlas leadership is communicating in advance, so that "everyone is clear on both school policies and family plans." Local parents told The Highline Journal they hope their home schools will be as transparent as Summit Atlas.
The following statement outlines Summit Atlas’ approach to communication and student safety in the event of a potential walkout.
A Message from Summit Atlas Leadership
Summit Atlas Families,
We know that broader community events and national conversations can sometimes influence student decisions during the school day. In moments like these, we want to reaffirm that Summit Atlas remains focused on providing a stable, caring learning environment for all students.
Classes will proceed as usual, and students who stay on campus will be actively supervised and supported throughout the day.
If a student decides to leave campus for reasons unrelated to school programing, families will be contacted. While we cannot physically stop a student from leaving, please be aware that students may not return to campus once they have departed, and the school cannot assume responsibility for off-campus activities.
We encourage caregivers to connect with their students ahead of time to discuss expectations and communication, so everyone is clear on both school policies and family plans.
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust. We are grateful for the shared commitment to supporting our students and community.
Sincerely,
The Summit Atlas Team
Original message:
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