What's the message?

In a time when methods of discipline and police presence in schools is coming under a lot of scrutiny, why would a social activist call for students to disrupt classes?  It has been proven that increasing a child's instructional time leads to a decrease in tardiness, absences, and disciplinary problems.  Under the Texas Education Code - Section 37.124, classroom disruption is a class C misdemeanor.  It has been widely discussed that once a student enters the justice system, their chance for success (timely graduation) begins to decrease.  Once they begin that downward spiral, in come the gangs, the truancy, the bullying, and the drugs.  So again I ask, why would a social activist call for students to intentionally disrupt classes?

The Irving (Texas) Independent School District has approximately 34,000 students.  Nearly 71% of those students are Hispanic.  Black and white students make up about 12% each.  The Irving ISD has an all white school board.  However, this week, the school board voted to change the way the members are elected, thus increasing the chance that minorities are voted into positions.  While still not a perfect system, it is a step in the right direction.  There are several community minority leaders who are still not pleased with the results.  While some are focusing on voter education and parents' participation in the schools, a member of the Irving NAACP states,

"If they don't go to a 7-0, we are suing them. We are calling for the kids to disrupt classes. We will be using every means necessary to get these people's attention."

The NAACP states in their objectives that they wish to remove barriers through democratic processes.  While there was a time for disruption and the "by any means necessary" mentality, is that the right message to teach students now?  When politics and agendas are argued in a board meeting between adults is one thing.  When you put the future of your students and children on the line, that's another. 

More can be read on this story here.