On Thursday, August 19th, 2021, West Florida Highschool had an assembly for the senior girls. At this assembly Dean Rachel Simmons made very inappropriate comments leaving the young girls in the audience feeling targeted. When discussing dress code regulations Dean Simmons went on to say that their choice of clothing would be the reason that they were sexually assaulted. Hundreds of young women were shocked and confused when she made these statements. In addition, the strict dress code regulations have caused several female students to miss out on important class time crucial to their education. While on the other hand our male counterparts are not held to the same standard. We made this petition because we want to change. Students attend school to earn their education. Not to be triggered by sexist comments and sexualized because of our clothing. We want to see a school where education is the number one priority not snatching girls out of class for ripped jeans or t-shirt showing a sliver of skin. We would like for the Dean Rachel Simmons to be held accountable for her comments at the assembly along with a formal apology and school-wide education about sexual assault. We are utterly disappointed and confused that someone who is supposed to be a role model for young women in our school would perpetuate ideologies surrounding sexism and victim-blaming. This is certainly not "the West Florida way". We can use our voices to make a change in our school system by tackling one issue at a time. Please sign this petition in support of bringing awareness to this pressing issue.

Created by Keira Watson and Kate Buchanan