After about 100 students walked out of class this morning in protest of Warhill High School’s administration, the principal issued a message to the school community.
Before dismissal, Jeff Carroll sent a message to students and staff about the event, which he called a peaceful protest to raise awareness of student support for staff.
“I respect the students’ right to share their concerns and commend them for their maturity in how they handled themselves this morning,” Carroll wrote. “I will continue to have an open door for any student or parent who would like to talk with me about the direction of our school.”
No disciplinary action will be taken against the students who left class at 9 a.m., all of whom returned just after 10 a.m.
Carroll acknowledged rumors circulating that prom or graduation privileges would be hurt by the walkout, but said they are untrue.
“I look forward to seeing you at prom, and I look forward to working with you to end our school year successfully,” he said.
In a separate message to parents using the division’s phone messenger system Carroll said students were protesting recent staff decisions at the school. He reiterated his respect for the students’ right to share their concerns, and welcomes students and adults to share their feelings.
In both messages Carroll noted the unrelated fight that broke out in a Warhill hallway following the protest, where two students were involved and one injured.
“It is important for all students to know that we will take appropriate disciplinary action because the safety of our students and staff is our priority,” he wrote to students. To parents he also said police are investigating the incident for possible charges.
The morning’s protest came soon after Warhill senior Jong Lee spoke at the Williamsburg-James City County School Board meeting May 20. He told the board he spoke on behalf of teachers, staff and students concerned about recent administrative changes and turnover in faculty and staff since Carroll and two other new administrators came on board in the fall.
Lee said teachers have not expressed their opinions for fear of losing their jobs, while students are afraid of punishment.
Since the start of the year on Sept. 3, Warhill has lost 14 staff members. Ten of those resigned, three retired and one teacher transferred. Lafayette High School has also had 14 teachers leave, while Jamestown High has had eight.
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