The nationwide issue of safer schools in America has been a huge concern for students in the metro area.
"I don't know if more people are more afraid but they're definitely more aware of it," said Tera Maher.
Now students are taking matters into their own hands becoming their own advocates.
"It's about, you know, protecting, you know, kids," said Mateo Salcedo.
Students nationwide plan to walk out of classes Friday to mark the 19th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting.
OPS says they will use this event as a learning opportunity.
"We are teaching them to be engaged students and be advocates for what they are passionate about and what they believe in," said Monique Farmer.
Instead of punishing students for exercising their free speech rights Farmer says they are welcoming it by guiding students on how to protest effectively.
"We are learning as much as we can and trying to have a designated spot on campus preferably so students can take advantage of their free speech rights in a safe way," said Farmer.
Giving students a chance to be a part of a solution.
"Teaching them about civil engagement and advocacy and about contacting their lawmakers to express concern," said Farmer.
She says it's this generation that will play a major role in the nation's future.
"We have to be very careful as a school district that we aren't taking any political sides and respect that our students do have a right to free speech," said Farmer.
