The changes at Fairview Elementary School began four years ago, when school principal Rob Williams placed a new sign in front of the school. Proudly proclaiming Fairview as a First Amendment School, the sign listed each of the five freedoms. “I wanted anyone that arrived at our school,” said principal Rob Williams, “to know that this was a place where we took freedom seriously.”

It worked. Within weeks, a group of parents at the predominantly-Hispanic school exercised their right to petition for a redress of grievances. “A number of parents worried that our school was not protected enough from passersby,” Williams explained. “Anyone could just walk into the classrooms. So the parents requested that a fence be built.”

The petition, written in both Spanish and English, began with the following words: “Conscious of our rights under the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States, while realizing that our children’s school has been designated a First Amendment School, we are petitioning for a redress of grievances and worries that we have.”

Because Williams believed that an increased role for parents at the school was important, he championed their efforts. And later that year, despite budget cutbacks throughout the district, the parents got their new fence. As a result, Williams earned a growing legion of parent volunteers. “We want everyone at our school,” said Chano Flores, a sixth grade teacher at Fairview, “parents, teachers, students, and custodial staff – to realize that they’re part of a bigger picture.”

Williams couldn’t agree more. “I am so thrilled because the mood and culture at Fairview has changed. We were packed to the gills with parents at graduation this year. And there is a new spirit of seeking common ground. That’s what being a First Amendment School has done for Fairview.”

Learn more about Fairview Elementary School:

• Visit their Web site.
• Read this recent article about the school.
• Read a letter from the Principal.
• Read a resolution supporting civic education approved by the Modesto City School Board.

Last updated: Wednesday, May 22, 2013 | 22:17:26