The Pink Slip Student Walk-Out of 2009

Back in 2009 students had heard about huge numbers of teachers (myself included) who were given pink slips because of "budgetary issues" across California. On this particular day, students all asked each other to wear pink in support. Many of us teachers also wore pink. However, midway through the day students stood up in their classrooms, grabbed their backpacks and walked off campus to the city park where they conducted a rally in support. I admit I was a bit terrified - how do you stop a hundred middle schoolers who are walking away? But I was touched, humbled, and will never forget this moment. This group of students had been labeled as "trouble" and "unfocused" and more. I love these guys.