Led by members of Menlo’s student councils, hundreds of our Middle School and Upper School students joined millions of other students across the nation in a voluntary school-wide walkout in response to the tragic shootings in Parkland, Florida. Student council secretary Keaton ’18 said “Menlo’s walkout had three goals: to show solidarity with those affected; to promote mental health awareness; and to support campus safety initiatives.”

At 10:00 am, students from both divisions gathered in front of Stent Family Hall where Kathryn ’18, student council vice president, spoke about school safety (see video below) and the importance of fostering a supportive and welcoming environment at our school. Mental health advocates Sierra ’18 and Walter ’19 spoke about providing support for and destigmatizing mental health. The student-led gathering concluded with a moment of silence and a tribute to the 17 lives lost in Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

Following the gathering, many Middle School students chose to participate in a 17-minute walk around the campus to honor the victims while more than 200 Upper School students continued the walkout by joining with students from Sacred Heart and Menlo-Atherton High School on a walk to El Camino Park where they held a rally. (The Coat of Arms published this photo essay where some students talk about why they choose to participate in the national walkout.)

“In light of this terrible tragedy, we are heartened to see our students join the chorus of students around the nation who are rising up to have their voices heard,” said Head of School Than Healy. “While the School maintains a neutral political stance on the specifics of gun control, we are not neutral in our demand for safety in our schools and for the well-being of our students. Our children deserve to grow and learn in safe and supportive environments.”

Menlo will continue our proactive efforts to ensure a safe campus, and the School will continue to foster dialog and run support programs that address mental health issues.