“First Amendment Auditor” incident prompts stricter safety measures at Lake Washington schools
The Lake Washington School District (LWSD) is taking action to bar an individual who identified himself as a “First Amendment Auditor” from all district properties. This decision follows an incident at Wilder Elementary School on March 27 that raised safety concerns among the community.
In an email to staff and families on March 28, LWSD Superintendent Jon Holmen said that the district is aware of “First Amendment Auditors,” individuals who record in public spaces to test their constitutional rights. Holmen specifically said that an individual identifying himself as James Madison visited the district office three times over the past seven months.
Madison wears a costume that includes a head and face covering and a GoPro camera. He has made multiple public record requests, recorded staff, attempted to record computer monitors, and asked staff to interact with him. Madison was seen loitering on the Wilder campus after instructional hours on March 27, leading to unease within the school community.
LWSD Director of Communications Shannon Parthemer said the district’s concern over Madison came from his unapproved filming on campus.
“James Madison did not have a legitimate business purpose at the school, and caused alarm for students, families and staff by being present and filming during school operating hours,” Parthemer said.
LWSD parents had a range of reactions to the events. Miguel Martinez, 46, of Sammamish, was not concerned, assuming students are attentive and aware of their surroundings.
“I don’t have any major concerns. I trust the kids to let a responsible adult know if they are in trouble,” Martinez said.
Amar Gowda, 40, of Sammamish, expressed more worry and advised greater caution.
“It’s clear that it’s not acceptable for someone to simply enter schools and begin recording without reason. Schools should be secure places where children feel safe,” Gowda said.
The district has provid schools with updated guidelines on how to respond to unauthorized individuals. A no-trespass order has also been issued to Madison.
Heidi Paul, LWSD Director of Elementary Education, said through an email to Wilder families that the district will review expectations and protocols with staff as well as institute lockdowns while contacting police in the event of a similar incident.
“Our main priority is the safety and well-being of our entire school community,” said Paul.
Wilder families have also been informed that initial guidance on dealing with “First Amendment Auditors” focused on de-escalation. It is now implementing stricter protocols in collaboration with law enforcement.
According to LWSD Head of Safety Scott Emry, the district works closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure campus security.“If there is an identified threat on campus, the district or school staff will immediately contact law enforcement for assistance,” Emry said.
