Sarasota Schools Greenlight New Protest Policy

0:00Sarasota County School Board just greenlit a new student protest policy in a tight three-to-two vote. Chair Bridges Eagler, Karen Rose, and Robin Marinelli said yes, while Tom Edwards and Liz Barker voted no. The rule greenlights expression, but hits disruptive stuff, like walkouts or sit-ins with discipline. Treating them as unexcused absences if they mess. With classes, this move ramps up after months of school tension, kicked off by student walkouts earlier this year over the district, teaming with immigration, enforcement, hundreds rally to headquarters, turning up the heat on local debates. The meeting room overflowed with parents, residents, and activists blasting the policy as a gag on young voices, arguing current rules already cover disruptions. Meanwhile, Bakker stressed the need for structure, accountability, and keeping academics first, saying activism fits better outside school hours. The policy also blocks outside groups from organizing on campus during the day and demands staff stay neutral.

1:02First pitched in 2025, it gained traction post protests and sailed through another three-to-two vote before final approval, Tuesday. With a now-live Sarasota school sits square in the bigger tussle over student rights versus smooth learning days, and eyes stay glued on enforcement. Ahead, that wraps Tampa Bay News today, brought to you with AI.