November 20, Corrected: Student Led Walkout

     

Dear Oxford High School Parents and Community,

 Oxford Community Schools was alerted to a student-led walk-out from Oxford High School classes tomorrow, November 21, 2023.  As an educational institution, we welcome engaged students.  We want our students to discuss ideas and express perspectives productively in keeping with the values of our community.

To that end, we had a meeting today with the student organizer, our security team, and the Oakland County Sheriff's Office.  The goal for all of us is a peaceful and safe time of engagement on Oxford High School Property and then an orderly return to class. 

We also recognize that most students coming to the high school tomorrow are coming to learn and engage academically and socially. They want to be in class without pressure or worry. Our teachers plan to continue to engage with every student throughout the day and our focus will remain on providing an education of excellence to each student tomorrow. 

We do want each family to be aware of the parameters around the protest if their student chooses to take part.  Here are the specific details of the student led protest tomorrow:

  1. At 10:30, Students who choose to walkout will do so by leaving at door 17 and will be marked absent for 4th hour.
  2. Students will meet at the stadium flagpole on the South side of the campus.
  3. The students will walk to this area, the lead student organizer will say a few words, then hold a moment of silence.
  4. After this time, the students will walk back to the building and go through Evolv at door 17
  5. The lead student organizer, with parent permission, will cross the street meeting at the entrance of the Willow Lakes subdivision (Oxford Rd. and State St.) to meet with the media.

In our school safety discussions, we want families and community members to know that school is still in session and as a result, our safety plan remains in place.  As a result, please note that:

  1. Community members who come to the student led protest are to stay on the safety path. They will not be allowed on school property during this time, nor will they be allowed to park at OHS.
  2. The media is not allowed on school property during the school day and will not be allowed on school property during this event. If the media does come, they will be asked to remain at the entrance of the Willow Lakes subdivision and to respect the mission of our district and the privacy of our students. 
  3. There will be an increased security presence from Fortis and the Oakland County Sheriff's Office.

We continue to have the safety and security of our students and staff as a priority.  We remain committed to providing every Oxford family and student with an education of excellence.

Thank you,

Dr. Vickie L. Markavitch
Superintendent