44 students walked out in disapproval of ACSD’s handling of issues relating to accusations against Jesse McCann. The walkout was spearheaded by senior Dean Cook, junior Hope Mathis, and freshman Liam Spencer. Those who chose to participate first exited the building around 9:35 this morning. A heightened police presence at the school was noted.
The protest camped out on 14th and Plum as of 11:20 a.m. Protesters are highlighting concerns against the school board and Superintendent Beth Johnsen. Signs sport slogans such as “Don’t protect predators.” Several other news sources were present at the event, with students posting videos of the protest on personal platforms. Spencer, Mathis, and Cook gave speeches to the crowd, which had diminished to around 30 students and community members by 10 a.m. Chants of “We want answers” and “We want them now” were near constant.
Spencer contacted ACSD officials, asking for a representative from the board to address the crowd. The representative said the message was passed along. Students intend to continue the protest until a representative from the district meets them in person.
