(Le Mars) — More than 200 students of the Le Mars Community High School and Middle School walked away from their classes today at 10:00 a.m. to show their support for the national movement calling for an end to school shootings. Students gathered outside the building around the flag pole. The students stood mostly in silence, although a few chuckles could be heard from a few of the students, and some of the students were seen using their cell phones and texting. The students stood outside for a total of 17 minutes, one minute for each of the 17 students that died from the Florida shooting that happened one month ago. High school principal Dr. Mark Iverson was among some of the school officials observing the protest. Le Mars Police officers were also in the neighborhood watching the students. School officials informed KLEM news we would not be allowed to visit with any of the students, unless parental permission was first given. School Superintendent Dr. Steve Webner says students that participated will not face any discipline actions. He says students were instructed that if they participated in the walk-out protest, they would need to follow the protocol, calling for them to stand next to the flag.
