More than 1,000 students walked out of their 5th-period classes on Monday, November 13th, 2023, advocating to keep Dr. Ronald Richardson (RO) at San Leandro High School. To many Dr. RO was more than just a principal; he is also a father figure. 

Students in the Social Justice Academy organized the walkout on Saturday, November 11th, 2023. Students took action by putting up posters, starting a petition, and sitting out of classes for the entire day on Monday, with plans to continue throughout the week. 

“We just want our principal back,” one of the many walkout organizers, senior Hope Johnson, said. 

Johnson said the purpose of the walkout was to bring attention to RO’s situation and to have people be aware that it’s unfair that he’s gone.

Students chanted “Keep RO” and “No RO, no peace” during the walkout that started in the quad and made its way to the front of the main campus. 

“Without RO, school is just hell,” said Johnson. 

Students continue to show solidarity for Dr. RO by planning more walkouts and attending the San Leandro Unified School District board meeting on November 14th, 2023.