PHILIPSBURG-OSCEOLA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

Phone: (814) 342-1050

Fax: (814) 342-7208
Web Site: www.pomounties.org

March 8, 2018

Dear Parents/Guardians,

The safety of our students is always a driving force behind our conversations and actions in the school
setting at the Philipsburg-Osceola School District. In response to the upcoming National School Walkout,
we would like to support our students with a “walk in” at the high school, and the opportunity to discuss
safety protocols, bullying, and acts of kindness at the middle school and elementary levels. The National
School Walkout calls for students to walk out of school on March 14th at 10:00 a.m. in honor of the 17
victims who lost their lives in the recent Parkland, Florida school shooting. Our goal is to provide
students with alternative options that are both safe and productive. As a result, instruction in all schools
will cease on March 14th from 10:00 until 10:17 a.m., and all students will have the option to participate
in non-political class discussions about topics ranging from safety, respect, and bullying to acts of
kindness and how to have a positive impact on society.

While high school students will be encouraged to participate in guided conversations related to non-
political topics such as respect and how to make positive change, students who feel their needs are not
being met may choose to exercise their First Amendment rights and express their views by participating
in a “walk in.” If a “walk in” does occur, a safe location will be provided in the auditorium. Additionally,
middle school students will be invited to join in conversations regarding safety protocols, anti-bullying,
and acts of kindness. All students will be discouraged from leaving the building and will be held
accountable to the school’s code of conduct. Those who choose to exit the building will be suspended.
Although we do not plan to specifically address this sensitive issue with our elementary students,
teachers will engage students in conversations about being kind, and students will be encouraged to
participate in acts of kindness throughout the day.

In light of recent events, we understand the need for communication. We can assure you that we
remain diligent where student safety is concerned. A number of safety initiatives are in place at the
Philipsburg-Osceola School District, and we continue to strive to improve. Please talk with your child
about this important topic, and if questions arise, we encourage you to contact your school’s principal.

Sincerely,

Dr. Gregg Paladina

Mr. Justin Hazelton
Mrs. Susan Harris

The Mission of the Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District is to provide opportunities, resources and support for students
to become lifelong learners.