The League of United Latin American Citizens held a news conference after Lee County schools refused to recognize two students by allowing them to give valedictorian speeches.
LULAC says it is challenging Bonita Springs High School and Estero High School's failure to honor their top academic students.
LULAC has filed formal complaints with the schools and the district.
One student was informed she would not be permitted to deliver a valedictory speech despite being a top academic performer. She tried to appeal the decision, but was ultimately dismissed. The other student had a similar experience after being excluded from giving a speech.
During the press conference, LULAC says that the organization's leaders presented evidence, shared testimonials, and called for urgent reform to ensure all students are honored based on merit.
The Lee County School District issued a statement saying "The school district of Lee County does not grant automatic speaking roles to valedictorians and has not since adopting the Cum Laude Graduation Recognition Program in 2005. Our process opens up speaking roles to all Summa Cum Laude 4.0 or higher graduates."
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