Approximately 75 Smoky students have walked out of class today to protest Michael Brown’s shooting death. There is a police escort, and students are staying on sidewalks.

In an email to staff, Assistant Principal Karen Adler wrote, “As you may or may not be aware students across the state, including CCSD schools and SHHS, have chosen to express their freedom of speech this morning by walking out. We absolutely support their right to do this, however, our preference would be that they choose a way to express themselves that does not impact class time or their academic endeavors. We will follow our normal attendance procedures. If students are absent from your class for the purpose of participating in the protest, simply mark them absent. Should parents wish to excuse the absence, we will honor that request.”

Protesters were chanting, “Hands up, don’t shoot.” They are currently walking towards 9Mile Station. Updates will be added as the situation changes.

Update 11:16 A.M.: 5 other Aurora schools are joining the protest. Aurora Sentinel reports that other Aurora schools are heading towards Aurora City Hall.

Update 12:35 P.M.: Students have reached 9Mile Station. Some students are protesting at the Aurora Municipal.