500 STUDENTS WALK OUT IN PEACEFUL PROTEST FOR TEACHER HEALTHCARE BENEFITS
JerseyTalks StaffThis morning, the Garfield Police Department responded to Garfield High School following reports of a large student walkout and protest. Approximately 500 students participated in the demonstration, voicing their support for teachers in the district regarding changes to healthcare benefits.
The Garfield Police Department’s role was to protect and ensure the safety of the students as they peacefully exercised their First Amendment rights. The protest began in front of the high school, with students marching north on Palisade Avenue to Semel Avenue, west through the high school parking lot, and then west on Outwater Lane to the Board of Education offices. Afterward, the students returned to the high school safely and without incident.
We commend the students of Garfield High School for conducting their protest in a peaceful and respectful manner while adhering to the safety guidelines provided by the Garfield Police Department. We also thank the community for their patience and understanding as traffic delays occurred during the event.