Berkeley County Schools urges neutrality and enforces code of conduct amid talk of student walkouts

A district representative speaking on behalf of Superintendent Sacks told the Berkeley County Schools board that staff have seen circulating community concerns about possible student walkouts tied to national immigration debates and reminded the public that the district’s priority is instruction and safety.

“Instruction first. Safety always,” the representative said, emphasizing the district will not organize or facilitate politically driven student activity. The speaker added, “Our schools are not organizing, facilitating, or negotiating any student activities,” and that any student who leaves class without authorization will be addressed under the student code of conduct “just as any other absence from class would be addressed.”

The spokeswoman’s remarks framed the district’s approach as neutral on underlying political issues. She said administrators have been given guidance to apply policies consistently and proportionally to avoid escalation while protecting students and learning.

The superintendent’s update also highlighted positive, nonpolitical student programs — including a state proclamation designating February 2026 Career and Technical Education Month — and described a local farm‑to‑table pilot in which Hedgesville High School agriculture students will supply produce (and potentially pork products) for select school cafeterias. Those items were presented as part of the district’s ongoing instructional and nutrition efforts rather than any political activity.

Board members reiterated that student safety remains the system’s top priority and thanked staff for the district’s steady, policy‑focused response. The district did not announce any disciplinary actions tied to the current reports of planned demonstrations; instead, staff said they will respond to unauthorized departures according to existing attendance and discipline policies.