Des Moines students want a voice in the gun control debate and are planning a large-scale walkout later this week.

And they're not alone.

Last month, there was a nationwide anti-gun violence walkout, but most central Iowa students were on break. So teenagers from across central Iowa decided to participate in the next one, which is Friday – the 19th anniversary of the Columbine shooting.

East High School students Alejandro Zarate, Tim Schonkaes and Jazzy Johnson are just a few of the many students planning the upcoming school walkout.

"A couple of leaders from high schools across Iowa got together and started talking about how we could actually make our own rendition," Zarate said.

On Friday, students at East High School will start with speeches and performances outside the school around 10:30 a.m. Then, they'll walk over to the Capitol, where they'll meet with other central Iowa students, register to vote and chat with lawmakers about their stance on guns.

"It's more of a learning thing than a debate," Schonkaes said. "That's why we have the legislators to talk to, both conservative and liberal, not just picking one side."

"This is no longer a political thing; it's a safety thing," Zarate said.

Students have worked closely with district officials to orchestrate the event, as well as other schools planning similar rallies, he said.

Valley High School Principal Tim Miller said students are planning their own walkout at 2:14 p.m. on the same day and have included staff in on the conversation.

"We're not sponsoring it; we're supporting it, and there's a fine line there," Miller said. "We understand where our kids are coming from, but school is very important to us as well. But we want to give them their opportunity."

It's a chance for students to listen and be heard.

Zarate said the students are encouraging people -- especially those who feel strongly about gun control -- to join the event.

Added Johnson: "People think, like, 'Teenagers don't know anything,' or 'Are you just out here doing whatever?' But we can actually make a change."

Students in Waukee, Urbandale and Johnston have also planned walkouts for Friday.

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