MUNCIE — Muncie Central High School has announced that several new procedures will remain in place now that a law firm has completed its independent review over a class assignment that prompted controversy and student-led protests.
The review, done in reference to a November 2021 conflict over a display of student-created posters regarding social issues in a hallway at the school, was completed by Church Church Hittle + Antrim, according to a statement from the high school.
"The firm conducted interviews with 17 individuals, including involved students; examined several MCS policies and administrative guidelines; and analyzed pertinent case laws regarding free speech, student rights and other legal issues," a statement from the school reads.
The school outlined a list of changes it has implemented following the incident, which includes regular listening sessions with students; a new security team; coordinated communications to address students' concerns; a new mental health resource guide; administrative walk-throughs to address support needed by students, faculty or staff; reviews for teacher-submitted lesson plans; and an "idea and concerns" forum.
RELATED | Muncie Central students back at school after conflict over class project
It also plans to implement the following changes:
- Development of a written policy in regard to displaying student work in a manner to develop critical thinking skills without resulting disruptions to the educational mission or threats to the safety of MCS students, faculty, staff or administrators
- A mental health professional will be added at MCHS through our partnership with Meridian Health Services beginning in March
- Ongoing professional development for teachers to ensure lessons are related to instructional goals
- A review of expectations for school security officers while providing continued training and professional development
- Ongoing training for all staff on implicit bias and culturally responsive practices
- A review of the faculty handbook to ensure it clearly communicates expectations for staff
- A review of the student handbook by a committee of teachers, counselors and administrators led by Associate Supt. Reynolds to ensure behavioral expectations and consequences are clearly stated
- A review and implementation of processes to ensure that disciplinary and behavioral issues are addressed equitably and consistently, and that resulting discipline is proportionate
RELATED | Students at Muncie Central High School protest after conflict over a class assignment
It follows a protest staged by students once the posters were moved from a hallway to a classroom after a "disruptive discussion" between a student and school resource officers over the poster display.
The project was based on the graphic novel "V for Vendetta." Students were meant to bring attention to real-world problems that related to the book.
A poster deemed offensive by some featured a drawing of a police officer depicted in "V for Vendetta" with the names of people who have been killed by law enforcement.
The law firm's full report is available here.
-
How can Indy keep money flowing into downtown during the workweek?
While Indianapolis is known for hosting big events, many downtown business owners would like to see improvements in the workweek economy.
Indianapolis school teaching students the importance of tech-free learning
During November, the Oaks Academy is conducting the 1 Million Minutes challenge. The goal is to go tech-free and have students spend time doing things like reading or art with their parents.
Explosion in Louisville leaves at least 11 injured, officials say
An explosion in Louisville has left at least 11 injured, officials say. Overhead news video footage showed an industrial building with a large hole in its roof.
IMPD searching for wanted suspect for his role in Oct. shooting
Elijah Miller is wanted for Battery by Means of a Deadly Weapon. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact IMPD at 317-327-3475 or Crime Stoppers at 317-262-8477.
