Culver High Students Plan Walk Out on March 14

On March 14 students from Culver City High School, Culver Park high school and Culver City Middle School will participate in a nationwide walkout to voice their opinions about gun violence and honor the victims of the Parkland shooting.

At 10 a.m. students will congregate on the CCHS football field to rally and deliver speeches expressing their views on the issue. The demonstration will end promptly at 11 a.m., and students will return to class.

Inspired by the protests organized by the survivors of the Parkland shooting, CCHS seniors Carolyn Dodenhoff and Cecilia Ribordy are leading the local movement and are working closely with CCHS/CPHS/CCMS staff and students, Culver City Council, and Culver City Police Department to make the event possible. The students aim to bring awareness to the issue of gun violence and to support the students in Parkland. "The idea of going to school should not elicit my fight or flight reaction," Dodenhoff said. "Unfortunately, it does right now. But we're fighting this time."

As a California Democracy School, CCHS actively promotes and engages students to be more civically minded through the five steps of a civic inquiry and investigation process: 1) Framing a civic inquiry around an issue that is relevant to students, 2) Conducting in-depth research on the multiple perspectives and solutions surrounding the issue, 3) Engaging in civil dialogue to reveal different points of view and perspectives, 4) Communicating a conclusion that is well-researched and, 5) Taking informed action by reaching out to policymakers for effective, appropriate solutions.

"The future of our democracy depends on a citizenry that is well informed and has the capacity to be thoughtful, engaged critical thinkers and problem solvers," said Dr. Lisa Cooper, CCHS Principal. "Rather than stifle these students as they try to express their civic activism, we are working closely with them to encourage them to express their opinions on this important issue without adversely impacting the learning environment on campus."

For more information on this event, please contact Dr. Carlos Valverde, Director of Activities, at carlosvalverde@ccusd.org.

Media note: The media is invited to attend this event; however, all media personnel will be required to check in at Culver City High School front counter before being granted permission to come onto campus. The media is also asked to contact Kelli Tarvyd at (310) 842-4200, ext. 3349 or via email at kelltarvyd@ccusd.org in advance to make arrangements.

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