Upper Darby district says students will not be disciplined for peaceful high-school walkout; district meets with students

Superintendent Dr. Daniel McGary told the Upper Darby School District board that last week’s high-school student walkout was largely peaceful and that the district would not discipline students who lawfully and calmly expressed their views. He said a small number of students who engaged in unsafe behavior — throwing ice — received consequences.

McGary framed the district’s response as a safety-first approach. He said administrators, school security, the district police and school leaders met with students to create a process that protected participants and allowed them to air concerns without coercion. "Nothing was forced on our students by any adult or peer," McGary said, and the district created forums where students could meet with administrators and law enforcement.

The superintendent also described staffing and budget pressures facing the district as background context for his update, noting uncertainty in state and federal funding for the 2026–27 budget and rising special-education costs. He said the district will continue to prioritize classroom needs and will provide updates in April.

During public comment, community views diverged sharply. Resident James Burroughs alleged the walkout disrupted traffic, endangered public safety and claimed outside organizations paid or encouraged students to disrupt classes; he called for a criminal investigation and suspension of any staff involved in organizing the walkout. Burroughs cited Pennsylvania education code and federal statutes in urging action. In contrast, parent Cindia Isles praised the board and district for choosing restraint, calling the students’ actions "civic engagement" and thanking administrators for prioritizing care over punishment.

Dr. McGary responded that the district had no evidence that students were paid to participate and that it would not conduct a "witch hunt." He reiterated the district’s priority to keep students safe and said conversations with students had been "real" and emotional. "We will continue to meet with students and provide support," he said.

The board did not announce further disciplinary action or the opening of a criminal investigation at the meeting. The district asked residents to use the established channels to report violations; no formal investigations were presented to the board during the session.

What happens next: McGary said the district will continue meetings and forums with students and staff and will provide further budget updates in April.