Malden Supporting Students In Next Week's Walkout

Malden is supporting students who will be walking out next week as part of a nationwide call to action in remembrance of the victims of the Parkland shooting and a push for change in gun laws. Superintendent John Oteri and Mayor Gary Christenson sent a letter Thursday saying they are "committed to supporting students in fostering this goal."

"We are confident our students will handle this in a mature manner and use this time in productive ways such as for reflection, a call to action and to bring about change," the letter reads.

Students and some staff from schools across the country will take part in a walkout on Wednesday, March 14, at 10 a.m. for 17 minutes in remembrance of the 17 victims of the shooting at Marjory Stoneham Douglas last month. In Malden, the administration is working with student leaders in high school and 7th and 8th grade "on providing a venue and outlet for our students and staff to stand in solidarity with their counterparts across the country."

Students who participate will not be disciplined. Students who choose not to participate will be safe and supervised, the letter said.

"We are certain this will be a seminal moment in our students' lives and will be an impactful moment across the country. We know our diverse, dedicated and thoughtful students will provide the leadership and voice that will carry the next generation to a safe and more inclusive world."

Photo by William Bornhoft/Patch.com