A thoughtful solution, and thanks to all the NT Neighbors and friends who reached out and constructively let their concerns be shared.
Dear New Trier Families,
Based on our discussions with student groups, we expect that a very large number of students will participate in the student-led walkout on Wednesday, March 14th at 10 a.m. Therefore, we are altering the bell schedule in order to maintain student safety, provide adequate supervision, and ensure a safe and respectful environment for all.
There will be an open period from 9:55 a.m. to 10:20 a.m. on both campuses. Students may choose to use the open period as they would any free period, going to areas including the Library, Cafeteria and Student Commons. Our primary concern is student safety. This schedule change assures that we can have faculty and staff available to supervise students inside and outside our buildings and also assures that students are not singled out for their decision to participate or not. School start and end times will remain the same, and we have adjusted the shuttle bus schedule so students can commute between campuses as usual.
Students will have a second adviser room following the open period for advisers to take attendance and to provide a transition that will allow students to be ready to engage in their classes for the remainder of the day. Students may not leave campus and are expected to be in all classes, including the second adviser room. This week, our advisers will review the schedule change with students and remind them that all school policies, including those regarding conduct and expression, will apply throughout the day. We expect all students to be orderly and respectful of differing points of view.
Local law enforcement will have an increased presence on our campuses on Wednesday. To protect student safety, we will not permit any visitors on either campus from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
We want to thank the student groups who organized this effort for their willingness to communicate with the school so we could put a plan in place that assures the safety and supervision of all students.
Sincerely,
Denise Dubravec Paul Waechtler
Winnetka Principal Northfield Principal