Students at several Plaquemines Parish high schools were among the thousands who walked out across the metro area Wednesday.
However, for those at Belle Chasse there were no signs or chants, rather it was a time of reflection, according to Principal Jemi Carlone.
The school made it clear that the walkout wasn't about guns or taking a political stance. Instead, it was a way to better students as they peacefully honored the 17 lives lost in last month's school shooting in Parkland, Florida.
"It was a good way of saying their needs to be change without being too forceful, without being too aggressive. It was nice, calm and dealt with in a peaceful manner," said senior Justin Bennett.
At first, school administrators wrestled with how to handle the walkout involving roughly 3,000 schools nationwide. Ultimately, they decided it was in the best interest of the students to let them participate ff they wanted. If they didn't that, was fine too, according to Carlone.
"We want them to, first of all, be civic minded and understand that they have choices,” said Carlone. “They don't have to be forced to take a political agenda or take a side. This (the walkout) wasn't about either of those things. It was about kindness and it was about what they can do to change themselves for the better."
Carlone says the safety of students is always top of mind. There are plans to put in $600,000 worth of new doors this summer and intruder drills are held regularly with students and police. The walkout also comes at a time when state leaders are discussing the controversial issue of arming teachers.
"I feel like there may be some teachers who might be willing, perhaps, and skilled enough to do that,” said teacher Lisa Adams. “I personally wouldn't want to handle a gun in the classroom.”
Back at the walkout, Bennett says the solution may be undetermined but this was a good start.
The school also says another reason for the more mellow walkout was to make sure the school day was not interrupted. The 17-minute-long walkout was held during a normal scheduled break.