Garnet Valley students to walk out on March 14

CONCORD » Garnet Valley High School students will have a private walkout on March 14 in memory of the victims of gun violence in schools around the nation since Columbine, almost 20 years ago.

A letter sent out by Superintendent Marc Bertando Thursday morning to the Garnet community announced some of the plans for the day on what is the one-month anniversary of the Parkland, Fla., shooting that killed 17 people. Citing safety reasons, Bertrando did not elaborate on specifics such as the time and place where the walkout will be staged. It was organized by the students and is for students only.

“Although the administration, building-based support, and the police will supervise the event, our campus will be closed to the media and others who either wish to participate or observe,” read Bertrando’s letter. “We feel strongly that taking this approach is best for the safety and security of our students.”

Of the information released about the walkout include wearing wear to symbolize the celebration of life, laying out 232 backpacks labeled with the names of school shooting victims, giving out flowers to lay on the backpacks and distributing orange ribbons as a symbol of safety. The drama club will sing the song “Shine” to commemorate the Parkland students.

Bertrando and high school Principal Stephen Brandt met with student leaders Lindsay Danehower and Anish Rana on Tuesday to discuss the walkout.

Bertrando credited Danehower, Rana and student council for showing great maturity and passion in how they’ve handled the latest massacre.

“Their plan for the 14th is a testimony to the love and learning that they receive from their families and

our school community. It is compassionate, accommodating

to all perspectives, and extremely well organized,” he said.

The walkout was indicated in a memo by students as an apolitical, peaceful event that is voluntary.

Teachers will remain in their classrooms with students who do not want to take part.

Bethel police and Pennsylvania State Police will provide security for the event.