VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) confirmed that several students were disciplined this week for violating district rules during recent student-led protests. The disciplinary actions come as anti-immigration enforcement demonstrations continue across Hampton Roads and the nation.
High school walkouts in Virginia Beach and Gloucester to protest ICE
A VBCPS spokesperson told WAVY that School Board Policy 5-40 acknowledges the constitutional right to freedom of speech while establishing parameters for student participation in assemblies during school hours. Division officials reported receiving multiple inquiries regarding these protests over the last week.
The school division says it maintains a neutral position regarding student activism. Officials stated that school staff will neither encourage nor discourage students from exercising their right to participate in any peaceful school walkout.
However, students must still adhere to standard attendance and safety protocols while on campus. Leaving school grounds without following proper early dismissal procedures is a violation of School Board Regulation 5-63.1 and may result in disciplinary action…