Schools

Update: Forum Scheduled to Discuss Off-Campus Lunch Privileges

Could a rule against SRVHS seniors eating lunch off-campus greatly affect local businesses?

BY JANE McINNIS

Parents, local-business owners, students and school staff will have the opportunity to speak their minds at a forum regarding San Ramon Valley High seniors being allowed to eat lunch off-campus on Oct. 24.

The forum will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24 in the school's cafeteria.

A decision won't be made at the forum, said Terry Koehne, the district's community relations director, but everyone will have a chance to share their thoughts on 'off-campus lunch' as a senior privilege.

In late September, students started a petition to restore the privilege, which formerly permitted juniors and seniors to leave campus for lunch.

An article from the school's newspaper in 2012 explains that beginning in the 2013-2014 school year, only seniors would be permitted to walk off-campus for lunch. No driving.

While San Ramon Valley High is close to downtown Danville, students are given 35 minutes for lunch time.

In an article that appeared in the Patch earlier this week, some readers were in support of the privilege, explaining that it gave upperclassmen responsibility and freedom while boosting local business.

"My understanding is that it is a liability issue. The district is responsible for the safety of our kids from the start of the day until the end, including when they leave campus for lunch. With that being said, why can't a parent sign a waiver of liability if they choose to let their Junior or Senior eat off campus? I'd sign it in a heart beat," user Suzanne Viani wrote.

What do you think? Leave your thoughts in a comment.


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