COWETA COUNTY, Ga. — Three students were arrested Friday after an unauthorized walkout and political demonstration at East Coweta High School, according to school officials.
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The incident prompted the school to temporarily enter a “Code Yellow” status as administrators and school resource officers worked to regain control of the campus.
In a message sent to parents, Principal Stephen Allen said 150 students left class around 10:30 a.m. to participate in a demonstration. Despite repeated instructions to return to class, many students initially refused and walked to the school stadium and surrounding areas.
Administrators activated the school’s Code Yellow protocol at about 11 a.m. as a precaution while staff located and escorted students back to the office.
“Many students returned to class afterward, but several refused to do so,” Allen wrote. “Several students displayed disruptive and defiant behavior and used vulgar language during this matter.”
School officials stressed that rumors circulating on social media about fights or violence were false.
“Contrary to social media rumors, no fights or other violent acts were observed,” Allen said.
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Three students who refused to comply with directives were detained by law enforcement. The school returned to normal “Code Green” operations around 12:15 p.m.
All students who participated in the walkout will face disciplinary consequences, according to the principal, which could include suspension and, in some cases, legal action.
The demonstration came one day after the school sent a warning to families about online rumors of a planned walkout. In earlier messages, administrators reminded students that leaving class during instructional time is not permitted and would be considered a disruption of the educational process.
“While East Coweta High School recognizes students’ rights to free expression, student walkouts during the instructional day are not permitted,” the letter stated. “Leaving campus and refusing to remain in class during instructional time creates safety concerns, disrupts instruction, and limits our ability to properly supervise students.”
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School leaders encouraged students to express their views in ways that do not interfere with school operations, such as engaging in classroom discussions or participating in civic activities outside of school hours.
Officials said the school day ultimately continued as normal after order was restored.
Parents with questions were encouraged to contact the school directly.
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