Student-organized petition sparks change for South Side graduation ceremony

JACKSON, Tenn. — With almost 3,000 signatures in support of honoring two senior students, one petition has sparked a change. This story was brought to our attention at the request of the senior students at South Side High School last Wednesday.

SEE ALSO: South Side seniors create petition to honor classmates at graduation

What began as a project over spring break, has since turned into a huge recognition for her fellow classmates Brayden Wilkerson and Evan Scott.

“At first it made me very stressed, I felt like I wasn’t being heard. But now, with the support of the community and everything, I’m glad I’m finally being heard,” said Anna Gonzales, senior at South Side.

Gonzales was the girlfriend of late Evan Scott, she has known him since they were in kindergarten.

“Not only is this a grieving process, but a healing process. It means so much to me to have the honor that both the boys are getting and they deserve. I believe Evan will walk across the stage with me, not only in my necklace but in the presence,” said Gonzales.

Since the initial share of the petition, there has been an update on the stance of whether or not South Side High School will honor the two senior boys.

“Yesterday I had a meeting with the principal and Evan’s mom, Heather Kemper. We all agreed that there’d be a moment of silence at graduation,” said Gonzales.

Kemper has supported Gonzales’ efforts.

“We’re proud of her for taking the initiative and taking it to the end, just because she felt like it was something that needed to be done,” said Kemper.

Although the original request was to have seats placed in their honor, Kemper is grateful for moment of silence. The denial for the seats may be triggering for others that would be in the audience.

“I’m sure there’s something else that can be done to replace the chair. Whether it’s a picture or maybe someone can come up with something specifically for that,” said Kemper.

South Side Principal Dr. Shari Baldwin and JMCSS Superintendent Dr. Marlon King will meet with Gonzales’ and Evan’s parents on Wednesday.

“We will also be discussing what we’re able to wear at graduation because there has been sashes made, pins made, for South Side students to be able to wear,” said Gonzales.

Kemper and Gonzales say they are grateful for Dr. Baldwin and Dr. King’s consideration.

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