Student Walkouts Lead To Road Closure In Oswego: Police

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego police closed a portion of Wolf Road Friday after student demonstrators spread into the road, officials said.

Oswego East High School and Plank Junior High School participated in walkouts against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities, Oswego Community Unit School District 308 spokesperson Theresa Komitas told Patch.

It was students' second walkout this week. Oswego High School students held a demonstration Feb. 6.

"Any time missed by students for this reason will be marked as unexcused," Komitas said, adding that the district did not organize, promote or encourage the walkouts.

At 12:15 p.m. Friday, police shared an alert on Facebook alerting the community that Wolf Road was temporarily closed from Fifth Street to Harvey Road as officers were working to redirect traffic. By 12:34 p.m., the roadway reopened.

Ahead of the walkout, police said they were working with school administrators to ensure the safety of students, staff and the community. Police also said students were to remain off roadways, follow lawful directions and avoid unsafe actions.

"We respect the right to peaceful expression and will work to support a safe environment for everyone involved," police said.

Authorities encouraged parents to talk to their children about making "choices during the school day, remaining respectful, and staying safe."

Earlier this week, three East Aurora High School students — including one who reportedly punched a police officer — were taken into custody during a 1,500-person, anti-ICE walkout, Patch reported. Portions of the crowd disregarded officers, entering traffic lanes and blocking vehicles, according to law enforcement, who said fights broke out, people threw water bottles at police vehicles and drivers were reckless.

RELATED: 3 Students Arrested During 1,500-Person Walkout In Aurora: Police

Editor’s note: This article has been updated to clarify only Oswego East High School and Plank Junior High School held walkouts Friday. Oswego High School's demonstration took place Feb. 6. Patch apologizes for the error.