Medford HS Headmaster Says Some Claims About Walkout 'Inaccurate'

MEDFORD, MA – Medford High School Headmaster John Perella on Thursday responded to what he said were "several inaccurate claims" made about the student walkout on Wednesday, March 7. In a statement, Perella said no students were suspended, given weekday or Saturday detention or academically punished.

Some Medford High School students joined their counterparts from Somerville and Cambridge in the walkout, which culminated in a meeting in Union Square.

"Students were advised that their actions, while inspiring and empowering, created legitimate concerns for building and student safety, and impacted the learning environment directly and indirectly for students who chose not to participate in the walk-out," Perella wrote.

He said staff and faculty did not prevent students from leaving the building, nor did administrators respond negatively to those who chose to participate in the walkout. Perella said he met with students who did not return to class and "engaged with them in a mutually meaningful discourse."

Read Perella's statement in full below:

Over the past 24 hours, there have been several inaccurate claims made regarding the response of Medford High School to the impromptu student walk out on Wednesday, March 7. I think it is imperative to be very clear on what happened, and what did not.

Students were advised that their actions, while inspiring and empowering, created legitimate concerns for building and student safety, and impacted the learning environment directly and indirectly for students who chose not to participate in the walk-out.

Students who walked out and returned after the 17 minutes were accounted for and returned to their regular school day. I met with the students who did not return and engaged with them in a mutually meaningful discourse.

No students were suspended.

No students were assigned detention or Saturday detention.

No students were academically punished.

No students were prevented from leaving the building, nor were students addressed in any negative way by school administrators.

My obligation is to ensure the emotional, intellectual, and physical safety of all students. How can we ensure the safety of students and faculty, but simultaneously encourage student voice and civic engagement? This is the dilemma our public school must address, while considering the wide range of community perspectives and opinions on the role of public education.

Only through genuine dialogue will we be able to chart a course that acknowledges our responsibilities and the value of student civic engagement and expression. We will continue to involve the community, and especially our student body as we move toward this goal.

I appreciate your understanding, voice, and support.
John Perella, Headmaster of Medford High School

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