Student walkout prompted by three board members “No” vote on ‘Every student belongs’ resolution

GRASS VALLEY, CAlif. April 22, 2025 – Several hundred students at Nevada Union High School and Ghidotti walked out today to protest the No votes by Board members Andrew Klein, Ken Johnson and Kelly Clark on a resolution entitled ‘Every Student belongs’ at their April 9th meeting. Concurrently with their walkout, a petition has been launched to bring the resolution back for consideration by the board.

Student voiced their frustration at the decision by three board members to decline adopting the resolution and stated their intentions to ask for reconsideration during the public comment portion of upcoming school board meetings. Several students shared why they do not feel safe at school and the impact it has on them, their families and friends.

The April 9 board discussion

During the April 9 board discussion, Trustee Johnson ended his 3-minute statement with “Your intentions are good, but your strategy is not. When I go to war, I like to win, not lose with style. Thank you.” Trustee Clark commented, “I was very bullied in high school. I know how it feels, okay? I have a lot of compassion for everybody. I love everybody, even those that live differently than me. But we’re not talking about that right now.” Trustee Klein read from his prepared remarks which included, “Voting no on this resolution will not harm a single student. But voting yes on this resolution has the potential to harm the learning environment that we have fostered.”

Student Representative Shaun Chilton, a non-voting board member, stated, “Change starts when people call out what they’re unhappy of and things are uncomfortable of. And I just kind of am curious, like, if No to this [the resolution], then Yes to what?” Trustee Pritchett said, “I am in support of this resolution. I feel that supporting this resolution would formalize the Board’s sentiment towards issues that we have. I feel like it is important for us to be able to demonstrate our commitment to student well being and to advocate for their needs and to ensure that they have a positive learning environment.” Trustee Willoughby agreed, “And yes, Trustee Pritchett, there needs to be action. But this is a start. This is a start for us to say we understand and we seek more understanding.”

The California Department of Education issued a response to federal executive order (aka Dear Colleague letter) signaling intent to dismantle the United States Department of Education. The response reads, in part, “While the federal administration is clearly willing to disrupt pathways to the American Dream, California remains focused on the promise of educational opportunities for all students.”

The video of the April 9 meeting is below, including the trustees discussion.

Text of the resolution

WHEREAS, it is the right of every child to access a free and appropriate public K-12 education and the Nevada Joint Union High School District welcomes and supports all students;

WHEREAS, the District has a responsibility to ensure that all students who reside within its boundaries can safely access a free public education as mandated by law.

WHEREAS, NJUHSD is resolute in its mission to build an inclusive, safe and equitable educational environment that places the success of ALL marginalized and non-marginalized students at the forefront of its work; and

WHEREAS, public schools and school districts in California are subject to all federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination.

WHEREAS, we will work to eliminate barriers and promote student success across race, social class, geographic location, immigration status or other personal characteristics such as creed, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, economic status, gender, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, pregnancy status, marital status, physical appearance, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability; and

WHEREAS, the NJUHSD Board recognizes the importance of policies and practices that promote belonging, respect, and dignity that lead directly to the educational and life success and health and wellbeing of all district students.

WHEREAS, through its policies and practices, the District has made a commitment to a quality education, which includes a safe and stable learning environment that is affirming for all students

WHEREAS, the District supports education that celebrates our different identities; integrity in how we treat others; and courage to do what’s right by listening to, learning from, and respecting diverse viewpoints;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Nevada Joint Union High School Board affirms its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety, inclusion, belonging, and affirmation of ALL students.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the District prohibits discrimination and bullying against all persons, regardless of personal characteristics, identifications or immigration status; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board declares the District a place to learn, to thrive, and to seek assistance, information, and support free from discrimination and bullying; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board will continue to implement and uphold policies that prohibit discrimination, harassment, and bullying and will work to strengthen a culture of respect and belonging for all.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Nevada Joint Union High School Board stands in solidarity with all students and remains committed to upholding their rights, dignity, and educational success.