A wave of disciplinary action has swept through Lee County, Florida schools following student-led protests against ICE earlier this month. The demonstrations, coordinated across 14 schools, saw over 3,600 students participate, but now, consequences are being handed down for those who left their classrooms.
District officials identified 2,480 students involved in what they termed “disruptive conduct” between February 4th and 6th. The fallout has already begun, with dozens facing suspensions as administrators meticulously review surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts.
Administrators are adamant that the punishments aren’t about suppressing political views. Instead, they cite violations of the district’s Student Code of Conduct – specifically, unauthorized absences, the creation of unsafe conditions, and defiance of school staff instructions.
The numbers paint a stark picture of the infractions. Over two thousand students were marked absent or tardy, while 393 were accused of safety violations. Fifty students faced charges of insubordination or disrespect towards school personnel.
The protests involved students leaving campus during school hours, with reports of fence-jumping and exiting through unauthorized areas. Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin described these actions as creating dangerous situations for both the students involved and those remaining on campus.
The district’s response has been multi-faceted. Eleven students have been recommended for reassignment to Success Academy, a program for students needing additional support. A total of 174 students received out-of-school or in-school suspensions.
Beyond suspensions, the district implemented a range of interventions. Forty students attended conferences, seven parents were contacted, and 208 students faced Level III interventions, including behavior contracts and loss of extracurricular privileges. Over two thousand students received warnings or assignment zeroes.
Officials were quick to point out that the vast majority of students – 96% – remained in class and adhered to school rules during the protests. Dr. Carlin emphasized that school safety and security remain the district’s top priority.
The investigation is ongoing, and officials warn that further disciplinary actions may be taken as they continue to analyze evidence. The full extent of the consequences remains to be seen.
Rumors have surfaced suggesting potential orchestration of the walkout by the teachers’ union, though these claims remain unconfirmed as the district continues its review.
