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Carroll County Changes Attitude, Bars Students From Walkout

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A school district in Maryland that allowed students to walk out last month to call for gun control has warned of consequences for those who participate in this month's planned protest.

The nationwide school walkout last month was a historic day, and students are planning to walk out again next week on the anniversary of the Columbine shooting. But Carroll County Public School is already telling their students it's not acceptable.

Just weeks ago, students walked out of class -- turning their pain and grief into a call for action.

"We do not want your sympathy or prayers, we want to change," one protester said.

Their message sent chills.

"I'm scared to death that one day I'm going to arrive in my car and leave in a coffin," one teen said.

Students nationwide and in Maryland are now set to take part in another walkout, but Carroll County School Board Superintendent Stephen Guthrie says the upcoming protest is "detrimental" and "not acceptable."

School systems like Baltimore County tell WJZ they want the walkout to remain on campus, while others like Howard County have yet to take a stance.

While March saw a movement like never before, April could mirror that -- but with consequences for those who choose to leave the classroom.

"I think if we stand long enough and shout hard enough, something will give," one student said.

The protest is set for April 20.

Last month, students across the country also took place in the March for our Lives rally in Washington, D.C., which drew more than 300,000 demonstrators.

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