“In this new resource, we urge school leaders to consult with their school attorneys and their state association of school boards as they develop protocols for student expressive activities,” said NSBA staff attorney Sonja Trainor.
As mentioned, the new checklist is an addendum to the NSBA First Amendment guide discussed at the end of a previous IASB Blog post about preparing for student protests.
In addition, the Council for Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) has compiled a step-by-step guide to support school districts to handle student walkouts in a positive way and use these efforts as teachable moments for the students, staff and surrounding community. It includes recommendations for guidance to school administrators and sample messaging guidance for school leaders.
Finally, there is also valuable insight contained in a March 1 Illinois State Board of Education letter from State Superintendent Tony Smith.