I first saw clips of Penn Wood High School students staging a walkout Sept. 24 on TikTok, and, honestly, it was hard to watch without feeling a mix of pride and concern. Pride for the courage these students showed, and concern because no student should feel the need to protest just to get the support and resources they deserve.

Students across the William Penn School District are facing serious funding challenges directly affecting their high school experience. These challenges make it harder for students to fully engage in school, participate in activities and feel supported in their learning environment. Non-athletic extracurriculars, school dances and other after-school activities that make high school memorable have been cut. High school should be a place where students feel safe, supported and able to focus on their education. Instead, many students are being forced to fight for the basic support they need to succeed.

The walkout wasn’t just a protest. It was a clear message that students are aware, care and demand the education they are entitled to. Watching clips on TikTok, you could hear the frustration in their voices and see it in their signs. One sign said, “We deserve memories, not excuses.” They were asking for a fair chance to have the high school experience they deserve.

It’s truly sad that students feel the need to protest. No one should have to step outside the classroom to make sure their education is taken seriously. Students shouldn’t have to fight for opportunities that should already be available.

This walkout was a wake-up call for the community. Students were showing us how much they care about their education, and it was a reminder we all need to advocate for better funding and resources so every student can have the full high school experience they deserve. While it’s inspiring when students feel the need to stage a walkout to make their voices heard, it’s also a little troubling. No student should have to take such measures to demand support from their school.