Princeton School Students Stage Walkout, Join Pro-Gaza Protestors At University

PRINCETON, NJ — In a show of solidarity, a large number of students from Princeton High School, staged a walkout on Thursday afternoon and joined the pro-Gaza protestors at the University.

Around 50 students marched from the high school, carrying posters and chanting "Free Palestine."

They then entered the Princeton University campus and joined the protestors at the Gaza Solidarity Encampment.

Journalist, author and Presbyterian minister Chris Hedges was seen addressing the crowd at the encampment.

Earlier in the day, Principal Cecilia X. Birge sent out an email to parents informing them students may walk out and join the University protest around 1 p.m.

"Considering the ongoing conflict on university campuses, we would like families to be aware of the situation," Birge said. "We have full confidence in the safety of our building. Our building safety team is monitoring the situation and is ensuring that our students are safe on our grounds and that their First Amendment rights are protected. However, we must stress to both students and parents that we do not have the ability to keep students safe once they leave our campus. PHS staff will remain at the high school and instruction will not be interrupted."

Birge said the district was in contact with the Princeton Police Department, who are fully aware of the situation.

As per school protocol, students who left campus were required to sign out at the Main Office.

"This protocol will be strictly enforced to ensure that we are meeting our obligation to both students and parents to ensure their safety to the fullest extent possible," Birge said.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com