In light of the mass shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, there have been numerous walkouts and marches across the world. Judson High School added itself to the list.

With the leadership of senior Keila Hernandez and a group of her peers, student-led a walkout on Friday, April 20, 2018.

“I feel that walking out is a great way to bring awareness to the political issues that are happening,” Keila said.

To make the walkout even more meaningful, there was voter registration table for students who are 18 years old and older. There was an inspiration station, a photo booth, and multiple activities that students enjoyed.

“[There was] a booth about mental illness and a booth about gun reform,” Keila said.

The principal, Jesus Hernandez lll, supported his daughter’s efforts and even offered participating students an incentive. Once the walkout was over and students return to class, Principal Hernandez would make those two absences as excused. However, the students who failed to return to class will be left as unexcused.

“I feel we can have this event be a positive message from the kids,” Principal Hernandez said.

Although the principal was on board with the plan, the walkout created some safety risks. Since the students gathered in the student parking lot, Principal Hernandez took extra precautions to keep the school and student body safe from all unsafe exposure.

“I can activate up to 20 police officers [if need be],” Principal Hernandez said.

The walkout was more dedicated towards the 800 seniors on campus who can be registered to vote. Nevertheless, it was available for all grade levels to participate in the democratic process.

“If the walkout impacts at least one person, I think that we can really make a difference,” Keila said.