Jackson Marches on High School, Is Arrested

Leading a made-for-TV demonstration that evoked the style of the civil rights movement, the Rev. Jesse Jackson was arrested Tuesday as he stepped onto the grounds of a high school to protest the expulsion of six students for a brawl at a football game.

Jackson was taken away in handcuffs after leading a throng of ministers and other protesters to Eisenhower High School. He had promised to force his own arrest.

Jackson was released without bond despite his request to spend the night in jail. The Rev. James Meeks, an associate, said Jackson and three others arrested with him had been charged with mob action, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and soliciting others to commit a crime.

The students were expelled for two years after a brawl at a football game Sept. 17. The board reduced the expulsions to one year, plus alternative schooling.

The school board met for more than 2 1/2 hours Tuesday night but did not change its decision. Board President Jackie Goetter said she believes school officials have shown fairness and flexibility on the issue.

She said the board needs to retain control against “intervention that seeks to overwhelm a duly elected authority by employing great resources and intense public pressure.”