Members of the Hampton Bays High School newspaper, The Tide, had an opportunity to practice their reporting skills as part of a simulated press conference held at the high school on March 16. 

During the simulation, students who chose to participate in the National School Walkout on March 14 in honor of the victims of Parkland, Florida, held a press conference to speak about their experiences during the event. Each student made an articulate and passionate statement before fielding questions from the student reporters.  

The exercise was part of the school district’s goal to provide an engaging, real-world education that will lead to the future success of its students.   

“I am proud of the caliber of our students,” said Superintendent of Schools Lars Clemensen. “These types of activities provide a structured way for students’ voices to be heard.”

In addition to holding the mock conference, the district worked with students and stakeholders to give students a “choice and voice” regarding the tragic events that took place at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Along with being permitted to walk out to a safe location on March 14, students also took part in social studies lessons regarding civil disobedience and wrote letters for change to elected officials, on topics of their choice related to school safety.