01/29/2026
Dear Student, Families, Staff, and Community Members
We are sharing this information in advance, so families are aware of school expectations and procedures. Our top priority is student safety and maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all.
We have been made aware of communication circling on social media about a potential student protest scheduled to take place during lunch on Friday, January 30, 2026. SYVUHSD wants to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the academic success, safety, and well-being of our students, employees, families, and the community we serve. Although this is not a school or district-sponsored event, as a democracy, we do not want to silence student voices. We believe civil engagement is a vital part of student learning, and we are committed to supporting student expression in constructive and meaningful ways.
We do not take positions on political issues or viewpoints; however, we recognize the importance of the civic process and supporting students as they learn to engage thoughtfully and responsibly within it, consistent with school expectations and safety requirements. Our priority is, and always will be, to maintain student safety, provide appropriate supervision, and cultivate a respectful campus environment. We are committed to treating all students with dignity and respect and to ensuring that any student engagement remains peaceful and consistent with school expectations.
If students choose to participate, the following scenarios may occur:
- If your student does not attend school
Students who do not attend school will be marked absent. As with any absence, the attendance office must be contacted within three school days.
- If your student leaves class but remains on campus
The school remains committed to student supervision and ensuring student safety throughout the school day.
- If your student leaves class and exits campus
Leaving campus during the school day without permission limits the school’s ability to supervise students and ensure their safety and is not permitted under school rules.
We appreciate our continued partnership with students, families, staff, and community members in supporting students as they learn to engage thoughtfully in the civic process. We encourage parents and guardians to use this as an opportunity to have conversations with their students about civic responsibility, respectful dialogue, and critical thinking, while reinforcing the importance of following school expectations and prioritizing safety.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District
