Nationwide School Walkout in Billings

Q2 reports that School District 2 officials say they will support students’ right of freedom of expression today during a planned walkout at 10 a.m. Students will stand outside in designated areas for 17 minutes, commemorating the 17 people murdered in the Parkland, Florida Massacre on Valentine’s Day at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

Officials aren’t certain how many students will participate between the three Billings public high schools and the Career Center, so they’re planning to keep students safe with Billings police officers and retired administrators on hand. Teachers will take attendance before and after the walkout. Superintendent Terry Bouck expects Wednesday’s event to be peaceful and respectful, saying SD2 will not take a political stance on the issue of gun reform, or endorse calls for action that any participating students may express regarding the Montana Legislature.